Running a marathon is a huge achievement, whether you’re chasing a personal best, running for charity or ticking off a lifelong goal. Months of training lead to one unforgettable day, which often involves careful travel plans and accommodation. When you invest so much in getting to the start line, it’s worth thinking about what would happen if things didn’t quite go to plan.
Running a marathon? Don’t forget about your travel insurance
The London Marathon
The London Marathon was founded in 1981 by athletes Chris Brasher and John Disley and has been held every year since. It’s got several parts to it: there’s a mass race for the public, professional races for long-distance runners, elite-level wheelchair races, and a 3-mile mini marathon event for under-17 athletes.
Following a path around the River Thames, the marathon has been the site of several broken World Records. It’s also been a great source of charity funding, with over £1.4 billion raised for many different organisations since its inception.
Kenya currently holds the record for the most winners of the London Marathon, with 18 winners in the men’s race and 14 in the women’s (as of March 2026). The current world record holders are Kelvin Kiptum of Kenya (in the men’s race) and Paula Radcliffe of the United Kingdom (in the women’s race).
The London Marathon has also grown hugely since its beginnings – in 1981, just 6,255 people managed to finish the race, while in 2025, a staggering 56,640 completed it. Most are amateur runners, with many competing in costumes to raise money for charity. In 2002, former footballer Lloyd Scott ‘ran’ the race in a deep-sea diving suit that weighed over 50kg and set the record for the slowest London Marathon completion time.
The London Marathon is just one of many races around the round that amateur and elite runners can take part in. Since 2006, the London Marathon’s elite race has been part of the World Marathon Majors. Many runners travel to other cities or countries to take part in marathons, and part of their planning involves taking out insurance – helping to protect them from unexpected setbacks so they can focus on the run ahead.
Insurance for marathon runners
It may not be the first thing on your mind when planning your marathon, but you definitely want the right insurance in place in case something goes wrong. Here are some types of insurance that you might want to consider before your race takes place:
Marathon insurance: This type of policy covers you for accidents that take place during the race, as well as third-party liability and equipment cover. No matter whether you’re an elite or amateur runner, marathon insurance is a must.
Travel insurance: Most travel insurance policies don’t cover you for sports-related activities, so make sure to check yours carefully before you travel. You can take out cover that’s specifically tailored for sports travel, which should cover your medical costs, cancellation, and any unexpected disruption.
Sports accident insurance: This offers personal protection and income support if you’re injured while running a marathon, whether you’re taking part recreationally or competitively.
Repatriation insurance: Injured after running abroad? This insurance will cover the cost of getting you back to the UK or home country.
Event entry fee protection: This covers the loss of pre-paid race entry fees if you fall ill or get injured and can’t participate.
Before travelling to your race, it’s a good idea to contact your insurer to find out whether you’re covered for marathons abroad, and that your policy is suitable for your other needs, too.
Let’s talk
Whatever life has in store, having the right personal insurance in place can help you feel prepared for the unexpected. Our personal insurance is designed to fit around your life, offering clear guidance, flexible cover and a team that’s always ready to help, so you can focus on making the most of every journey.
Travelling for a marathon this year? Visit our website to get a quote today.
Consistent with our policy when giving comment and advice on a non-specific basis, we cannot assume legal responsibility for the accuracy of any particular statement, in the case of specific problems, we recommend that professional advice be sought.
Consistent with our policy when giving comment and advice on a non-specific basis, we cannot assume legal responsibility for the accuracy of any particular statement. In the case of specific problems we recommend that professional advice be sought.
insurance4carhire is a trading name of Atlanta Insurance Intermediaries Limited. Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority under firm reference number 309599.
