Berlin Marathon 2025 Set to Host 80,000 Runners This Sunday

BERLIN, Germany — The 51st edition of the Berlin Marathon is set to take place this Sunday, September 21, 2025, with nearly 80,000 runners expected to participate. The event is known for its fast course, which has produced a remarkable 13 world records over the past 51 years.

Organizers predict favorable weather conditions, with moderate temperatures and light winds, creating an ideal setting for runners aiming for personal bests. Jürgen Lock, managing director of SCC EVENTS, noted the comprehensive preparations, including hydration stations and cooling areas due to possible temperatures exceeding 25 degrees Celsius.

The race will feature an impressive elite field, headlined by Kenyan Sabastian Sawe, who has a personal best of 2:02:05. Sawe, who aims to retain his title as the fastest marathon runner of the year, faces tough competition from Ethiopia’s Milkesa Mengesha, the defending champion.

In the women’s competition, fierce contenders such as Rosemary Wanjiru from Kenya and Mestawut Fikir from Ethiopia will aim to secure victory. Wanjiru, who posted a fast time of 2:16:14 during the Tokyo Marathon last year, is seeking to become the first Kenyan female winner since 2018.

The marathon begins at 9:15 a.m. local time, with runners starting in waves from the Straße des 17. Juni, located between the iconic Brandenburg Gate and the Kleiner Stern. The event will be broadcast live on RTL, starting at 8:30 a.m.

As participation in the marathon continues to grow, organizers emphasize the blend of elite competition and a communal atmosphere that brings together a diverse group of participants from around the globe.