Midnight Reverse Marathon Draws Over a Thousand Runners in London
Runners took over the streets of London at midnight last night for the annual Reverse Marathon, an unofficial overnight 26.2-mile run held the night before the official Marathon begins. The event attracted over a thousand participants from London's running community, offering a totally unique perspective on the regular route.
Participants began arriving at Trafalgar Square as early as 6pm to soak up the energy. PUMA, the event sponsor, supplied the first 100 people to arrive at its PROJECT 3 Van with a free shoe swap, exchanging their existing footwear for a new pair of the recently launched Deviate NITRO Elite 4, allowing them to steal the streets in style.
A world-record number of ballot entries for the 2026 race meant many missed out on a place in the official marathon. The Midnight Marathon provided an opportunity for everyone to take on the course. Throughout the run, PUMA ensured runners were not only fuelled but also kept in high spirits with accompanying music, free t-shirts, and celebrations throughout the night.
In the early hours, the first finishers crossed the finish line. PUMA gifted the first male and female finishers with a year's supply of PUMA Running footwear and apparel to mark their achievement.
After finishing the Reverse Marathon, one runner commented: "What an amazing experience. This is such a cool, unique way to experience the Marathon route. The energy in London over marathon weekend is unmatched, and I'm so excited to soak up the positive vibes in the city."
Later today, PUMA will keep energy levels high at The NITRO Lab by fueling marathon finishers with free post-race pizza and beer for any runner over the age of 18 who has a finisher's medal (terms and conditions apply). There will also be a live tattoo artist offering free flash tattoos, making this a race to remember.
In addition to The NITRO Lab, PUMA will also bring the energy to the PUMA London Flagship, providing finishers with free medal engraving throughout Sunday afternoon, Monday, and Tuesday.
Event Details
The NITRO Lab: The Mall, London SW1Y 5AH. Opening Times: Sunday 26th April (13:00 – 15:00)
PUMA London Flagship: 376-384 Oxford St, London W1U 1EF. Opening Times: Sunday 26th April (10:00 – 19:00)
About PUMA
PUMA is one of the world's leading sports brands, designing, developing, and selling footwear, apparel, and accessories. Founded in 1948, PUMA helps the world's best athletes and teams perform at their best with its innovative products. Known for its iconic cat logo and the Formstrip, the company offers performance products in categories such as Football, Running, and Training. Its Sportstyle collections are rooted in sports and inspire consumers by celebrating sports culture. With its long history and strong heritage, PUMA is proud of having one of the strongest archives in the industry, with many iconic products such as the Suede and the Speedcat. The PUMA Group owns the brands PUMA, Cobra Golf, and stichd. The company distributes its products in over 120 countries, employs more than 20,000 people, and is headquartered in Herzogenaurach, Germany.
