The 2025 London Marathon is hoping to break records for finishing participants The London Marathon will no longer post on X after its race director Hugh Brasher said the social media platform had "ceased to be a positive place". The London Marathon's official account, which has 191,000 followers, last posted on X on 17 January 2025. British Commonwealth 10,000m champion Eilish McColgan, who is competing in her first London Marathon on Sunday, was subjected to what her mum and coach Liz called"demeaning and abusive" body-shamingon social media in March. Brasher, who described the abuse as "abhorrent", said it was an example of why the London Marathon will no longer post on X. This year's London Marathon takes place on Sunday. "There are some social media channels that are particularly vitriolic and are descending into a gutter," said Brasher. "It (the decision) is off the back of just looking at that channel (X) and the vitriol. "It was ceasing to be a rational conversation. It was ceasing to be a positive place to be." X, previously known as Twitter, was bought by South African billionaire Elon Musk for $44bn in 2022. Brasher, who became race director in 2012, has been involved with the London Marathon since it was set up by his father Chris and John Disley in 1981. "One of the aims of my father and John was to show that on occasion, the family of humankind could be joyous together and celebrate together," said Brasher. "That's what the London Marathon is about. It is a force for good. "We didn't feel that channel shared those values, and therefore we have come off." This year's event is aiming to break the world record for the most finishers in a marathon. With more than 56,000 people expected to run, the race could surpass the 55,646 finishers at last year's New York Marathon.
London Marathon boycotts X after 'descent into gutter'
TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:
"London Marathon Withdraws from X Due to Toxic Environment"
Bbc News
7.5
TruthLens AI Summary
The London Marathon has officially decided to cease its activity on the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, due to concerns over the platform's deteriorating atmosphere. Race director Hugh Brasher expressed that X has 'ceased to be a positive place,' citing instances of abusive behavior that have become increasingly prevalent. This decision was influenced by the negative experience faced by British Commonwealth 10,000m champion Eilish McColgan, who encountered severe body-shaming on social media prior to her debut at the London Marathon. Brasher condemned such behavior as 'abhorrent' and indicated that it exemplifies the toxic environment that the London Marathon aims to distance itself from. The last post made by the marathon's official account, which boasts 191,000 followers, dates back to January 17, 2025, marking a significant shift in how the organization engages with social media platforms.
This year's London Marathon, happening on Sunday, is ambitious in its goal of breaking the record for the most finishers in a marathon, with expectations of over 56,000 participants. This would surpass the previous record of 55,646 finishers set at the New York Marathon. Brasher emphasized the original intent of the London Marathon, which was founded by his father and John Disley in 1981, to serve as a joyful celebration of humanity. He remarked that the marathon should embody a force for good, which he feels is no longer represented by X. The decision to withdraw from the platform reflects a broader concern regarding the discourse on social media, with Brasher noting that conversations have devolved into vitriol and a lack of rationality. As the marathon approaches, the focus remains on fostering a positive and inclusive environment for all participants, aligning with the event's core values.
TruthLens AI Analysis
The article presents a significant move by the London Marathon to cease posting on the social media platform X, previously known as Twitter. This decision stems from a broader concern regarding the toxic environment fostered by the platform, particularly highlighted by the body-shaming comments directed at athlete Eilish McColgan. The race director, Hugh Brasher, emphasizes a disconnect between the values of the London Marathon and the current atmosphere on X.
Motivation Behind the Announcement
This decision appears to be a strategic move to align the London Marathon with positive social values, distancing itself from platforms perceived as harmful. By quitting X, the organization aims to foster a healthier community atmosphere and reinforce its commitment to celebrating human achievement.
Public Perception
The article seeks to cultivate an understanding that social media can be detrimental, especially when it devolves into vitriolic exchanges. The narrative encourages readers to scrutinize the role of social media in public discourse and its impact on mental health, particularly for public figures like athletes.
Potential Concealments
There is no overt indication that the article aims to hide or obscure any significant issues. However, it does not delve deeply into the broader implications of social media's influence on society, which could warrant further exploration.
Manipulative Elements
The article contains elements that might be perceived as manipulative, particularly in its portrayal of X as a "gutter" and by emphasizing the abhorrent behavior towards McColgan. The language used could evoke emotional responses and reinforce negative views about the platform.
Truthfulness of the Report
The information presented in the article appears credible, as it is based on statements from an authoritative figure associated with the London Marathon. The issues raised regarding social media toxicity and the specific incident involving McColgan are well-documented concerns in contemporary discussions.
Societal Implications
This move could influence other organizations to reassess their engagement with social media platforms, potentially leading to a broader trend of distancing from harmful environments. The implications on community engagement in sports and positive public discourse could be significant.
Target Audience
The article seems to resonate with communities concerned about mental health, social media ethics, and sportsmanship. It likely appeals to individuals who value a supportive and celebratory environment in athletics.
Market Impact
While the article may not have a direct bearing on stock markets or financial sectors, it does highlight the growing scrutiny on social media companies. Companies like X could experience reputational damage, potentially affecting their user engagement and advertising revenues.
Global Context
The issues raised in this article reflect larger global conversations about the role and responsibility of social media in society. With rising awareness of mental health and online harassment, this narrative is timely and relevant.
Artificial Intelligence Influence
It is plausible that AI tools have been used in the drafting or editing process of this article, particularly in structuring the narrative and optimizing for clarity. However, there is no direct indication of AI manipulation in the content or tone.
Conclusion
Overall, this article serves to highlight the growing concerns about social media environments and their implications for public figures, particularly in the realm of sports. The motivations appear to align with a broader societal push for healthier communication channels.