On Sunday, April 13, 2025, the 48th edition of the Paris Marathon drew an unprecedented crowd of over 55,000 participants, setting a record for the event. As runners surged through the streets of the French capital, the atmosphere was electric, fueled by the excitement from the recent Olympic Games. Among the throng of amateur runners were elite athletes vying for glory on a course renowned for its picturesque views and challenging layout.
In the men’s race, 22-year-old Kenyan Benard Biwott emerged victorious, crossing the finish line at the Arc de Triomphe in an impressive time of 2 hours, 5 minutes, and 25 seconds. Biwott’s performance not only marked his first victory at the Paris Marathon but also represented a personal best, improving his previous record by 29 seconds, which he set during the Frankfurt Marathon in October 2024.
Biwwot made his decisive move at the 34-kilometer mark, leaving his competitors in his wake. "I’m very happy with my victory; I tried to push until the end. I’m very pleased with my time today. It was very difficult, but I gave it my all to win today," Biwott shared post-race, reflecting on his exhilarating journey to the finish.
Challenging him were Djiboutian Ibrahim Hassan, who finished second in 2 hours, 6 minutes, and 13 seconds, and Kenyan Sila Kiptoo, who secured third place with a time of 2 hours, 6 minutes, and 21 seconds. The race showcased a remarkable display of endurance and speed, with Biwott averaging a pace of 2 minutes and 59 seconds per kilometer.
Meanwhile, the women’s race was equally compelling, culminating in a thrilling finish. Ethiopian Bedatu Hirpa, 25, claimed the title with a time of 2 hours, 20 minutes, and 44 seconds. Hirpa's victory was hard-fought, edging out her compatriot Dera Dida, who finished just seconds behind in 2 hours, 20 minutes, and 49 seconds. Kenyan Angela Tanui completed the podium in third place with a time of 2 hours, 21 minutes, and 7 seconds.
The women’s race had been marked by a strategic battle among the front runners, with Hirpa and Dida maintaining a close contest throughout. After crossing the finish line, Hirpa celebrated her triumph with exuberance before showing a more emotional side during the post-race interviews.
As the sun rose over Paris, the weather proved to be a perfect companion for the marathon, with mild temperatures and partly cloudy skies contributing to an ideal running environment. The course, which began on the iconic Avenue des Champs-Élysées, wound its way through the Bois de Vincennes, along the Seine River, and culminated in a scenic loop through the Bois de Boulogne, finishing at the historic Arc de Triomphe.
In the handisport category, French athlete Julien Casoli triumphed for the sixth time, finishing in 1 hour, 33 minutes, and 3 seconds, narrowly defeating fellow Frenchman Thibaut Daurat, who clocked in at 1 hour, 33 minutes, and 4 seconds. The competition in this category was fierce, showcasing the incredible talent and determination of all participants.
The Paris Marathon continues to hold a special place in the hearts of runners worldwide, often regarded as one of the most beautiful races on the planet. This year’s event not only celebrated the spirit of competition but also highlighted the joy of running, with over half of the participants taking on the marathon distance for the first time.
As the dust settles on this year’s marathon, the focus now shifts to the upcoming events in the running calendar, including the Grand Slam de Paris, where renowned athletes like Teddy Riner are set to compete. With the excitement of the Paris Marathon still fresh, the running community eagerly anticipates the next chapter in this ever-evolving sport.
In summary, the 2025 Paris Marathon was a resounding success, showcasing elite performances, record participation, and the unyielding spirit of runners from all walks of life. With the backdrop of Paris’s stunning architecture and a vibrant atmosphere, this year’s marathon will be remembered as a highlight in the world of athletics.
