How to enter the 2020 Paris Marathon – Runner’s World (UK)

You’ve got to be fast or lucky to get into the London Marathon and with a month to go until the ballot is announced, plenty of runners will be thinking of a spring marathon plan B. One brilliant option that you don’t need to enter a ballot for – Paris Marathon.

Taking place in the same month as the London Marathon and just two hours away by train, if you’re tempted to sign up, here’s everything you need to know about the Paris Marathon.

When is the 2020 Paris Marathon?

Next year’s race will take place on Sunday 5 April 2020.

What time does the Paris Marathon start?

The race will start at 8.00am.

When does the entry open for the 2020 Paris Marathon?

The entry for next year’s race has now opened. You can sign up here.

How much does it cost?

There are a number of different packages for the 2020 Paris Marathon, with the basic entry starting at €90.

When will I need to start training for the Paris Marathon?

Most marathon training plans are around 16 weeks long, so you’ll need to start training for the 2020 Paris Marathon mid-December.

What will the course be for the 2020 Paris Marathon?

Paris Marathon organisers have not announced the 2020 route yet, but you can see the 2019 route here:

How do I get to the start line?

The Paris Marathon starts on Avenue des Champs-Elysées, Paris 75008.

What will the weather be like?

It’s far too early to predict what the weather will be like for next year’s Paris Marathon, but as this year’s race had pretty perfect conditions – sunny with highs of 9C, we’ll keep our fingers crossed.

How do I get my race number?

Runners will need to collect their race numbers at the Paris Marathon expo, at Porte de Versailles, 75015, Paris. The expo is open from Thursday to Saturday. Runners need to bring their race invitation letter, their medical certificate and ID. No race numbers can be sent out in the post, or collected on the day of the race, so make sure you attend.

How do I get a medical certificate for the Paris Marathon?

Paris Marathon requires all runners to have a valid medical certificate, signed by your doctor, which confirms you have no existing medical conditions which might mean you’re not fit to take part. Paris Marathon have a model certificate on their website here.

What happens if I get injured or change my mind – can I defer?

Paris Marathon offer runners cancellation insurance when signing up for the race. If you pay for this, you can cancel your place at the Paris Marathon from two months before the date and 15 days after the event. If you can’t run due to injury, you’ll need to provide a medical certificate. If your application is approved, you’ll be refunded the cost of the race. If you don’t pay for this insurance, you cannot get your money back or defer. Find out more on the Paris Marathon website.