On April 27, 2025, the London Marathon was momentarily disrupted by a pro-Palestine protest as activists threw red paint on Tower Bridge. Two protesters from the group Youth Demand jumped into the path of the men’s elite race and threw red powder paint across the road, calling for a trade embargo on Israel. The incident occurred around 10:35 AM on Sunday morning, coinciding with the 45th TCS London Marathon, which saw over 56,000 participants taking to the streets of London.
The protesters were identified as 18-year-old Willow Holland from Bristol and Cristy North, a live-in carer from Nottingham. Both activists wore t-shirts emblazoned with the message, “Youth Demand: Stop Arming Israel.” In a statement released by the group, Holland explained her actions: “I am taking action with Youth Demand because I have run out of other options: thousands are being killed in Gaza, our government is making no effort to stop it and no other course of action, marches or rallies, has worked. I refuse to be complicit in a genocide funded by our politicians.”
North echoed similar sentiments, stating, “I’m taking action today at the London marathon because the people in Palestine are running out of time. We have tried all other avenues to get the government to stop arming Israel and yet our government is still enabling a genocide. They are making the UK people complicit in breaking UK domestic law by using our taxes to arm a genocidal state, breaking humanitarian international law.”
The protest unfolded just as the elite men’s race was underway, featuring renowned athletes like Eliud Kipchoge. The BBC TV feed cut to the elite race moments after the leaders had crossed Tower Bridge, and despite the protest, there appeared to be no significant impact on the runners, who passed through the area unobstructed.
City of London police swiftly intervened, arresting the activists shortly after the incident. A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police confirmed that the paint used was chalk-based and posed no hazard to the runners. “At around 10:38 AM, two protesters from Youth Demand jumped over barriers at Tower Bridge and threw red paint onto the road,” the spokesperson said. “A member of London Marathon event staff intervened to remove the protesters from the path of the men's elite race which was able to pass unobstructed moments later.”
Holland and North’s actions were part of a broader campaign by Youth Demand, an offshoot of the Just Stop Oil movement, which aims to raise awareness about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The demonstration was timed with the UN’s World Food Programme announcing that food stocks in Gaza had been completely depleted due to Israel’s blockade.
The London Marathon, one of the most prestigious running events globally, featured over 56,000 participants this year, including celebrities, MPs, and individuals running in memory of loved ones. The elite men's race was ultimately won by Kenyan Sebastian Sawe, while Ethiopia's Tigst Assefa made headlines by shattering the women's-only world record.
As the marathon unfolded under sunny skies with temperatures reaching up to 22°C, the event attracted thousands of spectators who lined the streets to cheer on the runners. Among the participants were Lucy Jones, who turned 18 on marathon day, making her the youngest participant. The oldest runners, Mohan Kudchadker, 84, and Mary Jo Brinkman, 83, had traveled from the United States to compete.
In addition to the competitive races, many participants were dressed in creative costumes, adding a festive atmosphere to the event. Notably, David Stancombe and Sergio Aguiar were running to raise funds for projects in memory of their daughters, who tragically lost their lives in a mass stabbing incident in Southport last summer. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer publicly wished them luck in a video message, highlighting the emotional significance of their participation.
While the marathon is traditionally a day of celebration and community spirit, the protest raised questions about the intersection of activism and public events. Hugh Brasher, the chief executive of London Marathon Events, expressed disappointment over the disruption, stating, “It’s very disappointing that two people attempted to disrupt the London Marathon which does so much good, raises so many millions for charity, brings so much joy and brings communities together.”
Despite the protest, the marathon continued smoothly, with the elite runners navigating the course without significant delay. The event not only showcased athletic prowess but also served as a platform for social issues, with Youth Demand’s actions drawing attention to the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
As the marathon concluded, the legacy of the day extended beyond the finish line, with participants and activists alike reflecting on the importance of using public platforms to advocate for change. The London Marathon remains a powerful symbol of resilience, community, and the ongoing struggle for justice.
