World Marathon Majors: What They Are, the Six Star and How to Get a Bib
The World Marathon Majors are the circuit of the world’s great marathons, and running them all is the goal of many recreational runners. There are now eight races, and getting a place is not always easy: there are ballots, qualifying times, charity places and travel agencies. This guide explains what they are, how the Six Star medal works and every route to a bib from abroad.
What the World Marathon Majors are
According to the official Abbott World Marathon Majors website, the circuit is made up of eight marathons:
| Marathon | Country | Major since |
|---|---|---|
| Tokyo | Japan | One of the original six |
| Boston | United States | One of the original six |
| London | United Kingdom | One of the original six |
| Berlin | Germany | One of the original six |
| Chicago | United States | One of the original six |
| New York | United States | One of the original six |
| Sydney | Australia | First edition as a Major in 2025 |
| Cape Town | South Africa | First edition as a Major in 2027 |
The organisation is also evaluating the Shanghai Marathon.
The Six Star medal
According to the official page on how the Six Star medal works:
- It is awarded to runners who finish the original six Majors: Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago and New York.
- There is no time limit to complete them and no minimum time: you just need to appear in the official results.
- Sydney and Cape Town do not count towards the Six Star. If Shanghai joins the circuit, a nine-star medal will be created.
- Virtual races do not count.
- To keep track, create your profile in the runner portal on the official website, which matches your results automatically.
How to get a bib for a Major
Each race has its own rules, but the usual routes are:
- Each race’s own ballot: the most common route for recreational runners. Dates and conditions vary for each marathon.
- Qualifying times: some races reserve places for runners who can prove an age-graded time. At Boston it is the main route.
- Charity places: you raise a set amount for a charity linked to the race in exchange for a bib.
- Official travel agencies: they sell packages with a bib, hotel and sometimes flights. They cost more but guarantee the place.
- Abbott World Marathon Majors draws: for runners who already have several stars.
The Abbott World Marathon Majors draws
According to the official Abbott World Marathon Majors race draws page:
- Runners with three or more stars on their profile can enter; Tokyo and Boston require four or more.
- You cannot enter draws for races you have already completed.
- You must enter through the runner portal; it is not automatic.
- If you win, you pay the entry fee; travel is not included.
Places in these draws in the latest published cycle:
| Race | Places |
|---|---|
| Sydney 2026 | 250 |
| Berlin 2026 | 250 |
| Chicago 2026 | 250 |
| New York 2026 | 250 |
| Tokyo 2027 | 300 |
| Boston 2027 | 150 |
| London 2027 | 500 |
| Cape Town 2027 | 200 |
Tips for starting the challenge from Europe
- Enter several ballots at once: there is no limit and it increases your chances of getting a place.
- London and Berlin are the closest Majors for European runners, and the trip is simpler for a first experience.
- If your target is Boston, work on your time: the guide to the sub-4 marathon is a starting point.
- Plan your trip early; there are tips in the guide to travelling to a race.
- Prepare well for the distance with the marathon training plan.
Conclusion
The World Marathon Majors are eight marathons: Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago and New York, which earn the Six Star medal, plus Sydney and Cape Town. To get a bib you have each race’s ballot, qualifying times, charity places, official travel agencies and, if you already have three or more stars, the circuit’s own draws. Create your profile on the official portal to keep track of your stars.
FAQ
What are the World Marathon Majors?
Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago, New York, Sydney and Cape Town.
What is the Six Star medal?
The medal for finishing the original six Majors: Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago and New York.
Is there a time limit for the Six Star?
No. You can complete them over as many years as you like.
Which Major is hardest to get into?
Boston and Tokyo are the most demanding to access: Boston is based mainly on qualifying times, and in the circuit’s draws both require four or more stars.
Can I buy a bib for a Major?
Yes, through official travel agencies or charity places, although they usually cost more than a normal entry.
