Attention aspiring marathon runners! The application window for the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon is set to open on Wednesday, February 4, at noon ET, and will close on February 25. This represents a significant opportunity for those who dream of participating in one of the world’s most prestigious races, scheduled for the first Sunday of November.
The NYC Marathon, known for its challenging course that winds through all five boroughs, is not only a celebration of endurance but also a major event in the running community with a limited number of entries available each year. Last year, the New York Road Runners (NYRR) reported that they received over 200,000 applications from hopeful participants, yet only 3% were successful in securing a spot.
To apply for the 2026 marathon, there are specific pathways to gain entry:
One option is the non-guaranteed entry drawing, which allows applicants to enter from February 4 to February 25. On March 4, the NYRR will announce the drawing results, determining which applicants have qualified for a race bib. The applications are categorized into three pools:
1. “NYC metro area” applicants, including residents within 60 miles of New York City.
2. “National” applicants, consisting of U.S. residents outside the metro area, including Puerto Rico and other territories.
3. “International” applicants, which include residents from outside the U.S.
Additionally, current NYRR members can apply for an exclusive NYRR Member-Only Second-Chance Drawing, which requires active membership at the time of application.
For those who have already earned guaranteed entry, registration will also be open during the same timeframe, allowing you to secure your spot while paying the application fee. You can verify your guaranteed entry status through your NYRR dashboard.
Runners seeking guaranteed entry may qualify by meeting time standards at certified marathon races held outside of NYRR events. These qualifying times must have been achieved during the qualifying window from January 1, 2025, to December 31, 2025, and must be verifiable online.
The NYC Marathon not only presents a thrilling challenge but also an opportunity to join a vibrant community of runners from around the globe, making the journey toward crossing the finish line a memorable experience. Whether through the drawing or guaranteed entry, the path to the marathon begins tomorrow, so mark your calendars and prepare for a thrilling race ahead!