Seven times Tour de France champion Lance Armstrong will make his marathon debut in the New York City race on November 5, New York Road Runners president Mary Wittenberg said on Thursday.

Armstrong, 34, set his record winning streak at the Tour de France after he had been diagnosed with cancer and given less than a 50 percent chance of survival.

"I was thrilled to learn late last night of Lance's decision to run the New York City marathon," Wittenberg said in a statement. "A bit like winning the lottery after you thought you had lost.

"Lance epitomises both the American spirit and the spirit of the marathon and it is no surprise that his drive, motivation and focus lead him to his next challenge."