A game of rock, paper, scissors was used to determine when the elite female and male races will take place during next year's unique two-day London Marathon. After confirming they were playing for the right to race on the traditional Sunday, women's wheelchair world record holder Catherine Debrunner beat men's world record holder Sabastian Sawe - both 2026 London Marathon champions in their respective races - in the contest.

As a result, the elite men and men's wheelchair races are set for Saturday, 24 April, with the women's races the following day. Hugh Brasher, chief executive of London Marathon Events, said: "Sabastian and Catherine's rock, paper, scissors battle was an entertaining way to decide which day would host each elite race."

Earlier this year, organisers confirmed the London Marathon will be held across two days in a one-off edition, after a record 1.33 million people entered the ballot for next year. In 2027 a record-breaking 100,000 participants will take part, raising more than £150m for charity.

The women's championship categories will line-up behind the women's elite field for the first time in the London race. "Our outstanding elite women's wheelchair field will begin the action just ahead of them, creating a true celebration of women's marathon racing," Brasher added.