Over 80,000 Apply for Copenhagen Marathon Starting Spots

The Copenhagen Marathon has seen an overwhelming surge in interest, with over 80,937 individuals applying for a starting number for the 2027 race. Sparta Atletik & Løb, the organizer, announced that only 35,000 spots are available, necessitating a lottery system for the first time to ensure equitable access.

This massive interest highlights Copenhagen's growing status as an attractive marathon destination in Europe. Dorte Vibjerg, CEO of Sparta Atletik & Løb, stated that the lottery offers everyone a chance to participate, regardless of their location. Applicants hail from over 160 nationalities, with Sweden and Great Britain showing the next highest interest after Denmark.

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The massive interest testifies that Copenhagen is today among Europe's most attractive marathon destinations.

Furthermore, the demographic of applicants shows a positive trend: women now constitute 37 percent of applicants, an increase from previous years where they represented under 30 percent. The largest age group applying is 25 to 29 years old, making up 23.5 percent of the total.

The marathon, covering 42.195 kilometers through Copenhagen, is scheduled for May 9, 2027. The race in 2026 sold out in less than a day, underscoring its popularity.

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With the lottery, everyone has had a window of three weeks to sign up, regardless of where in the world they live. This has given far more people a real chance to participate.