Ballot for the 2026 AJ Bell Great North Run is Now Open!

With the world’s biggest half marathon just days away. this is your chance to be part of the landmark 45th  AJ Bell Great North Run in 2026, as the SEPTEMBER BALLOT is now OPEN.

The September Ballot runs until midnight on Sunday 14 September, at which point ballot applications close.

The 2026 event returns on Sunday 13 September 2026, so whether you’re inspired by this year’s runners or eager to fulfil a bucket list half marathon, this is the first opportunity for participants to secure entry.

For your chance to be on the iconic start line – sign up now.

Paul Foster, Chief Executive of the Great Run Company said, “The AJ Bell Great North Run is world famous for many reasons – it’s incredible atmosphere, roaring crowd support and charity fundraising efforts. It’s no wonder it is top of many runners wish lists to complete. We wish everyone good luck with their ballot application – for those who are aren’t successful in September, they will have another chance to secure entry in January, or via one of the many charities who offer places.” 

The ballot will be drawn on Monday 15 September, when applicants will be notified of their results. A second ballot will be held in January 2026, with the final places confirmed then. With the event’s profile and popularity continuing to grow, this year’s ballot is expected to be the biggest ever.

Since 1981, the Great North Run has captured the imagination of runners across the globe, growing from its first start line on the streets of Newcastle into an event that has welcomed over 1.4 million finishers. It’s a race that has seen everything from world-class athletes and charity fundraisers to first-time runners chasing a personal milestone, and each year tens of thousands come together to cross the iconic Tyne Bridge and write their own chapter in running history.

AJ Bell have nominated a new official charity, Alzheimer Society, for the 2026 AJ Bell Great Run Series, including the AJ Bell Great North Run. Stephen Vowles, Chief Marketing Officer at AJ Bell added, “We’re proud to have nominated the Alzheimer’s Society to be the official charity partner of the AJ Bell Great Run Series 2026-27, and incredibly excited to get started.

“Together we want to invest in a future without dementia – the UK’s biggest killer. We look forward to cheering on the Alzheimer’s Society runners at the Great Run events next year and hope that this partnership with AJ Bell will raise vital funds to improve the ways we research, diagnose and treat dementia to support those affected across the country.”

Don’t miss your chance to be part of history in 2026. Enter the ballot today and join the millions who have made the AJ Bell Great North Run the most celebrated half marathon in the world.

AJ Bell Great North Run weekend is almost here. The whole weekend promises energy, entertainment, and an electric atmosphere. Don’t miss a second of it – read on for your full rundown of what’s happening here.