Runners can sign up to take part in the first virtual edition of the iconic event on October 4

The Virgin Money London Marathon has launched entry into the event’s first virtual edition to be held on Sunday October 4.

There will now only be elite races taking place in the UK capital in 2020, with the next mass in-person event planned for autumn 2021.

Organisers offered all 2020 entrants the opportunity to take part in the 40th edition of the event by completing the 26.2 miles from home or anywhere in the world, in addition to deferring their place to a future London Marathon in 2021, 2022 or 2023.

Remaining places up to the limit of 45,000 have now been released, to be filled on a first-come, first-served basis at www.virginmoneylondonmarathon.com

Participants have 23 hours, 59 minutes and 59 seconds to run, jog or walk the 26.2 mile distance, anytime from 00:00 to 23:59:59 BST on Sunday October 4. A new app is being developed with technology partners TCS to enable participants to log their 26.2 miles and earn their finisher medal and New Balance T-shirt.

“This is the most inclusive London Marathon in our 40-year history and we believe The 40th Race will epitomise the extraordinary spirit of the London Marathon which makes it the greatest marathon in the world,” said event director Hugh Brasher.

“With 23 hours, 59 minutes and 59 seconds to complete the 26.2 mile distance, we know we will see a huge range of creative marathon attempts, with fun, fancy dress, fundraising, and community spirit at the heart of the day.

“London is the most popular marathon in the world with more than 467,000 people applying for a place in the ballot for the 2020 event. The response to the virtual event from participants and charities that had places in the original event has been huge and we encourage everyone taking part to fundraise for the charity of their choice. Right now, many vulnerable sectors of society are dependent on help from charities at a time when charity income has been decimated.”

The entry fee for the virtual London Marathon is £20 (plus £5 for international entrants to cover post and packing overseas).

Results from The 40th Race may be used to apply for a Good for Age or Championship place in the 2021 Virgin Money London Marathon and for the London Classics medal. Supplementary evidence will be required for new applications for a Good for Age or Championship place. Full details will be published on the London Marathon website by August 31.

Click here to read more about the elite event, which will take place on a closed loop circuit around St James’s Park.