More than 80,000 runners have applied for a place in Copenhagen Marathon 2027, highlighting the race’s growing global appeal and cementing its status as one of Europe’s most sought-after marathon events.
A total of 80,937 runners entered the lottery for a race bib for Copenhagen Marathon 2027. The figure is significantly higher than the 35,000 places available for the race on the streets of Copenhagen, underlining the enormous demand for the event.
For the first time in the marathon’s history, places will be allocated through a lottery system. The decision follows Copenhagen Marathon 2026 selling out in less than 24 hours and is intended to create a fairer and more accessible registration process for the thousands of runners hoping to take part.
“The tremendous interest shows that Copenhagen is now among Europe’s most attractive marathon destinations. Copenhagen Marathon has become more than just a race. For many people, it is a personal goal and an experience they dream of sharing with others.
“With the lottery, everyone had three weeks to enter, regardless of where in the world they live. It has given far more runners a genuine opportunity to secure a place on the start line,” said Dorte Vibjerg, CEO of Sparta Athletics & Running.
Facts about the Copenhagen Marathon 2027 lottery
- 80,937 people expressed interest in participating
- 35,000 race entries are available
- More than 160 nationalities are represented among the applicants
- 37% of applicants are women
- 25.9% applied as part of a group
- Largest age group: 25–29 years old (23.5%)
- Copenhagen Marathon takes place on Sunday, May 9, 2027
Global interest reaches new heights
The new lottery model has had a clear impact on the applicant pool, which is more diverse than ever before. Interest in the race is truly global, with applicants representing more than 160 nationalities. By comparison, 122 nationalities were represented on the start line at the 2026 edition of the race.
Another notable development is the share of female applicants. While women made up just under 30 percent of the field in 2026, they now account for 37 percent of those interested in participating in the lottery for the 2027 race.
In addition, one in four applicants (25.9%) chose to take advantage of the new option to enter as part of a group, ensuring they can participate together if selected.
Copenhagen Marathon 2027 top 10 applicant countries
- Denmark
- Sweden
- United Kingdom
- Norway
- Germany
- United States
- Italy
- Spain
- France
- Poland
Alternative entry opportunities available
Once all entries for Copenhagen Marathon 2027 have been allocated, applicants who were not selected in the lottery will be notified by email.
Those who are unsuccessful in securing an entry through the lottery may still have an opportunity to participate through one of Copenhagen Marathon’s official charity partners or tour operators. Information about these options will be available on the Copenhagen Marathon website soon.
This structure places the first subheading where the story shifts from overall demand to demographic trends and international interest, and the second where it moves to practical information for unsuccessful applicants.