London Marathon Events Acquires Frankfurt Marathon

London Marathon Events (LME) has acquired Motion Events GmbH, the organization responsible for the Mainova Frankfurt Marathon. Announced on April 9, 2026, the acquisition represents the first major international expansion for the UK-based organization and serves as a primary component of its long-term growth strategy.

Motion Events GmbH was founded in 1999 and manages a portfolio of running events. In addition to the Mainova Frankfurt Marathon, the organization also manages the Gutenberg Half Marathon Mainz.

The Heritage of the Frankfurt Marathon

The Mainova Frankfurt Marathon is recognized as one of the most historic city marathons in Europe, having been first held in 1981. The event has gained international prestige, largely due to its fast course and its distinctive indoor red-carpet finish located in the Festhalle.

LME intends to build upon this heritage while integrating the event into a broader European context. The acquisition follows the announcement of a new European Marathon Classics series, which includes both the London and Frankfurt marathons, a move designed to increase demand and elevate the international status of the events.

Strategic Rationale and Synergies

The decision to expand into Frankfurt is based on the strategic alignment of the two cities. LME identified London and Frankfurt as Europe’s leading financial centers, viewing the pairing as a natural alliance. The organization believes this connection will unlock strong commercial synergies and enhance participant engagement across both markets.

This move builds on LME’s previous investments in the UK mass-participation sports sector and its existing consultancy work within Europe.

Leadership and Operational Transition

As part of the transition, Holger Kranz has been appointed as the new CEO to lead the business. Kranz previously served as the Head of Sponsorship at Frankfurt Tourism. The existing operational team at Motion Events will remain in place to ensure continuity.

Jo Schindler, the founder of Motion Events who has led the organization for over two decades, will maintain a leadership role. Schindler will remain the Race Director through 2026 and will continue to serve as a board member to support the transition of ownership.

Community and Participation Goals

A primary objective for LME following the acquisition is to apply its globally recognized expertise to increase physical activity across all ages and abilities in Frankfurt. There will be a specific emphasis on encouraging children and young people to become active.

To achieve this, LME plans to collaborate with local running clubs in Frankfurt. These partnerships are intended to expand race participation among under-represented communities within the city.

The Frankfurt Marathon is a world-class event with deep heritage, exceptional community support, and enormous potential for future growth. We are honoured to become its custodians and to work with Motion’s brilliant team to build on Jo Schindler’s remarkable legacy. This acquisition marks a defining moment in LME’s international journey, and we cannot wait to bring our shared vision to life.

Hugh Brasher, CEO, London Marathon Events

For more than 20 years, our team has organised the Frankfurt Marathon with passion and dedication. I was looking for a partner who would preserve the spirit of the event, respect its people and invest in its future – and we have found that in London Marathon Events. Together we could take the event to the next level – I couldn’t imagine a better home for my Frankfurt Marathon.

Jo Schindler, Founder, Motion Events GmbH