Sydney Marathon joins London and New York in series of world’s biggest races

The Sydney Marathon is added to the iconic list of races around the world as it becomes the seventh city to join the Abbott World Marathon Majors series.

The elite circuit includes marathons in Boston, Tokyo, Berlin, Chicago, London and New York.

Sydney will become the first city in the southern hemisphere to be part of the series after the race attracted 25,000 runners in September.

NSW Premier Chris Minns said it would provide a multimillion-dollar boost to the economy and “an unforgettable experience for runners on one of the most scenic marathon courses in the world.”

The Sydney Marathon’s route overlooks the ocean and ends on the steps of the Sydney Opera House.

It has participants from more than 100 countries and has raised more than $25 million since it began in 2000 as a legacy of the Sydney Olympics.

Race director Wayne Larden called the announcement a “monumental achievement” after a three-year review process.

Athletics Australia president Jane Flemming said it was a “transformative moment for Australian athletics”.

“Sydney joining this elite group is a testament to the dedication, passion and experience of everyone involved, but it is an achievement that will inspire countless Australians to take up running,” she said.

The event will return next August and is expected to surpass previous participation records.