Berlin Marathon 2025: Elite Runners Prepare for Record-Breaking Race

BERLIN, Germany – The 51st edition of the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON kicks off on Sunday, September 21, with over 80,000 participants expected. This iconic race, known for its flat and fast course, attracts a global field of elite athletes.

The marathon is part of the Abbott World Marathon Majors, featuring top runners from around the world. This year, more than 160 nations are represented, including standout athletes like Sabastian Sawe of Kenya, who aims for his third consecutive marathon victory.

Sawe, who finished last year’s race in a remarkable 2:02:16, will face tough competition, including defending champion Milkesa Mengesha of Ethiopia. Mengesha won the previous marathon in 2:03:17 and is determined to protect his title.

Among the women, Rosemary Wanjiru, a rising star, will lead the pack with a personal best of 2:16:14. The absence of defending champion Tigist Ketema, who is competing in the London Marathon, opens the field for other elite runners, including Dera Dida of Ethiopia and Japanese record holder Honami Maeda.

Race director Mark Milde emphasized the marathon’s reputation for fast finishes. “Berlin’s course has hosted more world records than any other marathon,” Milde said. The elite hand-bikers will start the event at 8:50 a.m., followed by wheelchair racers at 8:56 a.m., and the first wave of runners at 9:15 a.m. local time.

With a forecast of rising temperatures, organizers have prepared additional refreshment stations and cooling stations along the route, which stretches through Berlin’s most famous landmarks, such as the Brandenburg Gate and the Reichstag building.

As runners gear up for this year’s marathon, the atmosphere in Berlin is electric. Jürgen Lock, CEO of SCC EVENTS, noted, “This race brings together thousands of runners and spectators to celebrate diversity and endurance.” The event is not just a race; it’s a festival of movement and community spirit.

Whether aiming for personal bests or simply participating, runners look forward to a memorable experience at the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON 2025.