Extinction Rebellion volunteers protect the London Marathon

The London Marathon coincided with four days of continuous protests from Extinction Rebellion around the capital. Aware that many were concerned about disruptions, members of the eco-outfit actively protected the event to safeguard its reputation. 

Extinction Rebellion members decided that showing discretion was the best course of action last weekend. 

In the run-up to the London Marathon, the climate group had been holding four-day demonstrations in Parliament Square leading many to believe the event would be actively targeted. 

On the contrary, the group’s senior representatives met with race organisers to strategise on how to protect one of the ‘crown jewels’ of British sport. On the day of the event, Extinction Rebellion even volunteered members to diffuse any potential obstructions at different checkpoints. 

‘We believe a handful of people might want to do an action to block the race,’ said 63-year-old Michel, an Extinction Rebellion devotee from Brussels. ‘We don’t believe it’s necessary.’ 

Marathon organiser on live BBC Sport coverage explains XR protest to reporter:

🥳It’s a joyous celebration of humankind coming together

🔥Global warming is so important

🌎People should be allowed to protest

🌎Together we have to take action-otherwise heading for catastrophe pic.twitter.com/SxFMhbDNGT

— Extinction Rebellion Oxford (@XR_Oxford) April 23, 2023

The eco-outfit showed out and had presence around the marathon, with its synonymous symbol visible on flags and placards picked up by national media. The key distinction with its outing on this occasion, however, is that its message was peacefully observed and those running were encouraged.