Key Highlights
- The 2026 Irish Life Dublin Marathon will take place on October 26, 2026.
- A new ballot system has been introduced for the 2026 entry process.
- The race start location is Leeson Street Lower in Dublin.
- Only one ballot entry is permitted per person.
New Entry Process for Irish Life Dublin Marathon 2026
The 2026 edition of the Irish Life Dublin Marathon, set to take place on October 26, 2026, introduces a new ballot system for entry. The race, which is one of Ireland’s premier sporting events, is expected to draw around 22,000 participants from across the country and beyond.
Ballot Entry Details
The previous 48-hour priority entry window, which allowed participants of the current year’s marathon to register before the ballot opened, will no longer be in effect. However, those with a history in the race can still benefit from a higher chance of securing a spot. Runners who have participated in the Dublin Marathon since 2016 are encouraged to apply through the ballot system.
The early entry opportunity for women who previously ran in the Irish Life Dublin Half Marathon will be integrated into the general ballot process, as organizers aim to increase female participation rates.
Ballot Fee and Success Rate
A €5 administration fee will apply per ballot entry, which covers processing and verification costs. This fee is redeemable against the full €110 entry fee if successful or non-refundable otherwise. Organizers emphasize that only one ballot entry is permitted per person to ensure fairness.
Timeline for Ballot Applications
The six-day application period will open at 7 am on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, and close at midnight on Monday, November 17, 2025. Applicants can submit their entries through the official website: www.irishlifedublinmarathon.ie.
Ballot results will be communicated to applicants on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, and Wednesday, November 26, 2025. Notifications will be released in batches over both days.
Conclusion
The introduction of the ballot system aims to create a more equitable entry process for the 2026 Irish Life Dublin Marathon. With the race just 347 days away, participants are encouraged to apply early and follow the guidelines carefully to increase their chances of securing a spot in this prestigious event.
