The 2026 Irish Life Dublin Marathon has already generated more than €1.3 million for charitable and community causes, more than three months out from race day.
The figure underlines the growing social impact of one of Ireland’s largest participation events, with fundraising currently running 37 per cent ahead of the same point in 2025.
This year, 208 charities are participating in the Irish Life Dublin Marathon charity programme, including 110 Irish charities. That represents a 52 per cent increase year-on-year in charity involvement, while charity runner applications have also risen by 54 per cent.
The numbers reflect the importance of the marathon as a fundraising platform, not only for major national charities but also for smaller organisations working in communities across the country.
While the event is best known as one of Europe’s leading mass participation sporting events, its impact extends far beyond the 26.2 miles through the streets of the capital.
Each year, thousands of runners use their marathon journeys to raise funds and awareness for causes close to their hearts. The charities supported through the event span healthcare, disability services, mental health, homelessness, youth development, family support and wider community initiatives.
“The Irish Life Dublin Marathon demonstrates the unique role sport can play in bringing communities together and creating meaningful impact,” said Seán Ó Riain, Chief Executive Officer of Dublin Marathon Group.
“The fundraising generated through our events is driven by the commitment of participants, the generosity of supporters and the incredible work of our charity partners.”
The fundraising campaign is supported by Official Charity Partner realbuzz, which manages the charity places programme and works with charities in Ireland and internationally. Eventmaster, the Official Fundraising Platform, enables participants to create fundraising pages regardless of how they secured their place in the event.
That combination of charity places and open fundraising gives the event a broad platform for impact, allowing official charity runners and general entrants alike to contribute to causes they care about.
The figures land as the event continues its “Road to 50” journey towards the 50th running of the Dublin Marathon in 2031.
“As we continue our Road to 50 journey, we remain focused on ensuring Dublin Marathon Group delivers benefits that extend well beyond participation numbers, creating lasting value for charities, communities, partners and society,” added Ó Riain.
With more than three months still to go until race day, fundraising is expected to grow significantly further.
Irish Life and the Dublin Marathon Group are full members of Sport for Business.
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Image Credit: Irish Life Dublin Marathon and Sportsfile, Dave Fitzgerald
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