Copenhagen draws the crowds: 188,000 enter lottery for Copenhagen Half Marathon

Interest in the Copenhagen Half Marathon 2027 has reached unprecedented levels, with 188,522 runners registering for the lottery in hopes of securing one of 45,000 places on the start line.

Since the lottery opened on 16 September, registrations have poured in from Denmark and abroad. With 188,522 people competing for 45,000 places, next September’s race is set to attract a record number of participants to the streets of Copenhagen.

While many applicants will miss out, the 45,000 available places will still represent the largest field in the event’s history.

Dorte Vibjerg, CEO of Sparta Atletik & Løb, welcomed the enormous interest while stressing the importance of maintaining the quality of the event.

“This shows just how strongly Copenhagen and the city’s enthusiastic spectators attract running enthusiasts from around the world. That became particularly clear during the world championships in Copenhagen this year. We would have loved to invite everyone to join the celebration both along the course and in the Runners Area after the race. But we will not compromise on quality and can therefore only accommodate a number of runners that allows us to maintain the same high standards for both the experience and safety,” Vibjerg said.

Successful runners must complete their booking

After the lottery closed overnight into Thursday, the process of selecting the successful runners began.

Vibjerg has a clear message for those who receive notification after 5 October:

“There are obviously many people waiting for a race number. If you are lucky enough to be selected, it is important to check your email and remember to complete the booking of your race number before the deadline, so that it does not pass on to someone else,” she said.

The deadline for registering for the lottery through the Copenhagen Half Marathon website was 30 September.

A total of 188,522 people registered. There are 45,000 places available, a new record for the event. The first successful applicants will be notified by email from 5 October.

The Copenhagen Half Marathon 2027 will take place on Sunday, 19 September 2027.

The event is organised by Sparta Atletik & Løb, a non-profit sports association.