A new marathon event combining competitive racing with festival-style entertainment is set to debut in east London next spring.
The Team Marathon is scheduled for May 22, 2027, in Hackney Wick, offering participants a distinctive approach to completing the 26.2-mile distance.
The event challenges traditional marathon formats by requiring teams of four to tackle the course together.
Each squad member covers a 10.55km segment while running simultaneously alongside teammates on a compact loop circuit.
This structure differs from conventional relay races, where participants typically complete separate legs independently.
Nick Keller, chief executive of Benchmark, the sports events company organising the occasion, highlighted shifting participation trends in the running community.
Research indicates that 80 percent of runners aged 18 to 24 register alongside companions, while global run club membership has grown by 59 percent.
Keller observed that despite running becoming increasingly social, most established race formats continue prioritising individual competition rather than collective achievement.
The event will incorporate live music performances, DJ sets, designated cheer stations, and a race village featuring street food vendors, beverages, and brand activations.
Keller expressed enthusiasm for introducing a team-based concept, emphasising that shared experiences would form the core principle of the occasion.
Runners would receive a collective marathon finishing time while maintaining a sense of personal accomplishment, though enjoyment with fellow participants remained a primary objective.
Benchmark, the firm behind the established Bloomberg Square Mile Relay series, has facilitated 86 events internationally since 2008.
The Team Marathon represents the company’s latest initiative in the sports events sector.
Early registration opened on August 26th at 10am, with 100 founding team places released.
Each team booking accommodates four competitors at a rate of £26.20 per runner.
Expansion plans include introducing the concept to three additional British cities during 2027, followed by a broader rollout across European destinations.