Apple Sponsors London Marathon With Free Pre-Race Events

Apple has announced its role as an official partner for the 2026 TCS London Marathon, a partnership that includes a series of free community events and digital content designed to support athletes and students ahead of the race on April 26, 2026.

The initiative integrates Apple’s hardware and services ecosystem, specifically Apple Fitness+ and Apple Music, into the preparation and execution of one of the world’s most popular marathons. This year’s event saw a record-breaking one million people apply for the entry ballot.

Pre-Race Events at Brompton Road

Apple will utilize its Brompton Road store as a hub for two primary free events in the days leading up to the marathon. These events aim to provide both technical training advice and mental preparation for participants.

On April 23, 2026, the company will host a panel featuring fitness trainer Joe Wicks, ultramarathon runner Hellah Sidibe, and athletes Dora Atim, Becky Briggs, and Sherica Holmon. This session is designed to offer training tips to attendees. Following the panel, Apple Fitness+ trainer Cory Wharton-Malcolm will lead a 5K shakeout run in Hyde Park.

On April 25, 2026, the Brompton Road store will host a live recording of the podcast Paula’s Run Club. The episode will feature former marathon world-record holder Paula Radcliffe and two-time Olympian Chris Thompson, joined by Wharton-Malcolm. This recording serves as the conclusion to their Road to London Marathon series.

Digital Integration and Race Day Support

As part of the partnership, Apple is leveraging its music platform to support athletes during the race. Apple Music has released an official Ultimate Marathon Playlist, which spans seven hours of content to accompany runners throughout the course.

On the day of the race, April 26, 2026, Apple Music will station DJs and artists at a key point along the marathon course to provide live motivation. The company has also stated that additional mixes from these race-day DJs will be made available following the event.

Community and Youth Outreach

Beyond the professional and amateur athlete experience, Apple is implementing a youth-focused initiative called PE with Apple: Hour of Play. This program is designed for students aged 10 to 14 from six schools located in the London borough of Wandsworth.

The event is conducted in partnership with the nonprofit organization Enable, with Joe Wicks and Apple Fitness+ trainers leading the physical activities for the students.

Apple also highlighted its ongoing support for several other organizations within Greater London, including:

• Battersea Arts Centre
• Southbank Centre
• Youth Battersea
• Wandsworth BEST