Irish Life Dublin Marathon Fundraising Campaign Surpasses €1.3 Million Over Three Months Before Race Day
JULY 8TH, 2026
Over three months before race day, the 2026 Irish Life Dublin Marathon has already generated more than €1.3 million for charitable and community causes, underlining the growing social impact of one of Ireland’s largest participation events.
Fundraising is currently running 37% ahead of the same point in 2025, reflecting continued growth in both participant engagement and charity involvement across the event.
This year, 208 charities are participating in the Irish Life Dublin Marathon charity programme, including 110 Irish charities, representing a 52% increase year-on-year. Charity runner applications have also increased by 54%, highlighting the growing importance of the event as a fundraising platform for charitable organisations.
While the Irish Life Dublin Marathon is recognised as one of Europe’s leading mass participation sporting events, its impact extends far beyond race day.
Each year, thousands of participants use their marathon journey to raise funds and awareness for causes close to their hearts, supporting organisations working across healthcare, disability services, mental health, homelessness, youth development, family support and community initiatives.
Commenting on the milestone, Chief Executive Officer of Dublin Marathon Group, Seán Ó Riain, said:
“The Irish Life Dublin Marathon demonstrates the unique role sport can play in bringing communities together and creating meaningful impact. 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.
“As we continue our Road to 50 journey towards the 50th running of the event in 2031, 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.”
The fundraising campaign is supported by Official Charity Partner realbuzz, which manages the charity places programme and works with charities in Ireland and internationally, alongside Official Fundraising Platform Eventmaster, which enables participants to create fundraising pages regardless of how they secured their place in the event.
For Dublin Marathon Group, the figures represent more than fundraising success. They highlight the growing role major sporting events can play in creating social value, mobilising communities and supporting charitable organisations at scale.
With over three months still to go until race day, fundraising efforts are expected to continue growing significantly, reinforcing the Irish Life Dublin Marathon’s position as one of Ireland’s most impactful community sporting events.
