Tokyo 2021: overseas runners update

The Tokyo Marathon has today announced that due to continued strict border restrictions in place for travelers entering Japan and the uncertainty of when they will be lifted, overseas runners will not participate in the Tokyo Marathon 2021.

In line with this decision, the entries of the overseas runners will be deferred to the 2023 event.

Race Director Tad Hayano said: "The Tokyo Marathon organizing committee, along with the COVID-19 Investigative Committee, and other local partners and experts have been closely monitoring the COVID-19 situation worldwide in preparation for the event.

"With the strict border control of Japan that is currently in place, we have made the difficult decision to announce that our overseas runners will not be able to participate in the Tokyo Marathon 2021.

"For all runners who have been preparing and looking forward to race day, we understand your disappointment and we express our sincere apologies for the situation we are in and the necessary decision we have had to make.

"All overseas runners who were registered for 2021 will have the option to defer to the 2023 event. More information on this will be shared in the coming weeks and months.

"We look forward to the day when we can unite safely, and be together again at the Tokyo Marathon. We thank you very much for your continued support of our team and our event.

The full story can be found on the Tokyo Marathon website.