A virtual race could be on the cards.

This year's KBC Dublin Marathon has been officially cancelled due to coronavirus. The event, which was due to take place on Sunday October 25, was postponed today over the social distancing measures that will likely remain in place later this year. All entries for this year's marathon and race series will be valid in 2021. Otherwise, a full refund is available. "We know this is extremely disappointing for all runners, especially those who secured marathon entries," said race director Jim Aughney. "We made the difficult decision in the best interest of the health and wellbeing of all those involved in making our events such a success from runners, supporters, volunteers, sponsors, to suppliers. "We explored many alternatives for running the events safely but ultimately none were viable." This is the first time since 1980 that there will be no marathon, however organisers have hinted that a virtual race could be on the cards. Athletics Ireland also confirmed today that the 2020 National Marathon Championship, which was scheduled to take place within the event, has also been cancelled. All entires will be deferred until 2021.