On February 4, registration opened for the New York Marathon, one of the World Marathon Majors.
The New York Marathon is possibly one of the world's largest marathons by participant numbers; last year 59,226 runners finished.
The 2026 New York Marathon is scheduled for November 1. But getting to the start line is far from easy. Last year more than 200,000 people entered, and the final lottery acceptance rate was only 2–3%, because a large number of entries are allocated through guaranteed entry, the "9+1" program, charity spots, and other avenues.
The registration period is from February 4 to February 25, 2026, runners applying for the "general entry lottery" should note that the organizers say all dates are subject to change! So runners should submit their applications promptly to avoid unnecessary uncertainty.
This year's lottery results are expected to be announced on March 4, 2026, if you're fortunate enough to be a New York Road Runners (NYRR) member, you'll be eligible for the "NYRR members-only second lottery", and the results of the second drawing will be announced on March 5.
After signing up, besides waiting for Lady Luck, there are a few "tasks" — namely, make sure your payment information is flawless. Please pay attention to the following points; don't let a hard-won spot slip away because the charge failed.
▪︎ “Automatic charge upon selection” take-it-or-leave-it authorization
Once you submit your application, you are deemed to authorize NYRR to charge the registration fee immediately upon selection. Please note this fee is non-refundable and non-transferable; once selected, the New York Marathon will not accept "I accidentally charged it" as an excuse.
▪︎ Card expiration and balance check
Your card's expiration date must be after March 2026. If you are using a bank card, please make sure there are sufficient funds in the account — don't let your dream be blocked at the last minute.
▪︎ Notify your bank in advance
To avoid your bank's system misidentifying this international transaction as fraud and blocking it, we strongly recommend contacting your bank in advance to inform them that a charge from "New York Road Runners" will occur.
▪︎ Golden grace period for failed charges
If your payment unfortunately fails, you must update your card information before March 6, 2026. NYRR will continue to attempt the charge until March 7; if it is still unsuccessful by then, your entry will be considered forfeited with no second chance.
▪︎ Want to change your mind? Do it soon
Before the lottery drawing officially begins, you still have the chance to remove your name and cancel your entry; however, once the system selects you, the payment will be charged immediately and a confirmation notice will be sent out before the end of the day.
