In a thrilling display of endurance and speed, Bernard Biwott of Kenya emerged victorious at the 48th Marathon de Paris, held on April 13, 2025, finishing the race in an impressive time of 2 hours, 5 minutes, and 25 seconds. Just shy of the event record by a mere 54 seconds, Biwott's performance solidified his status as a rising star in the marathon world.
The race kicked off with nearly 56,000 runners lining up on the iconic Champs-Élysées, making it one of the most popular marathons globally. The atmosphere was electric, with 51% of participants running their first marathon, showcasing the event's appeal to both experienced and novice runners alike.
In the men's category, Biwott led a competitive field, finishing ahead of Djibouti's Ibrahim Hassan, who clocked in at 2 hours, 6 minutes, and 13 seconds, followed closely by fellow Kenyan Sila Kiptoo at 2 hours, 6 minutes, and 21 seconds. The race unfolded along a scenic route that included the Bois de Vincennes and the Seine, culminating near the Arc de Triomphe, a fitting backdrop for such a prestigious event.
Despite a strong start, French runner Hassan Chadhi, who recently placed 20th at the Paris Olympics, was forced to withdraw from the race at the 34-kilometer mark, leaving Jason Pointeau as the top French performer, finishing in 15th place with a time of 2 hours, 13 minutes, and 36 seconds.
The women's race saw a fierce competition as well, with Ethiopia's Bedatu Hirpa taking the top spot. She crossed the finish line in 2 hours, 20 minutes, and 45 seconds, narrowly defeating her compatriot Dera Dida, who finished just four seconds later in 2 hours, 20 minutes, and 49 seconds. Kenyan Angela Tanui secured third place with a time of 2 hours, 21 minutes, and 7 seconds, rounding out a highly competitive podium.
Among the French women, Loréna Meningand was the standout performer, finishing 12th overall with a time of 2 hours, 36 minutes, and 33 seconds. The race was not only a test of speed but also a showcase of resilience, as many runners endured the challenges of the course.
In the handisport category, Julien Casoli made headlines by winning for the sixth time, clocking in at 1 hour, 33 minutes, and 3 seconds. This victory adds to his previous wins from 2012, 2015, 2019, 2021, and 2022. Casoli, now 42 years old, expressed deep emotion at the finish line, hinting that this could be his final appearance at the Paris marathon.
The event was marked by a diverse representation, with 124 nationalities participating. Approximately 33% of the runners hailed from abroad, while 31% were women, reflecting a growing inclusivity in marathon running. The average age of participants was around 37 years, showcasing a mix of youthful energy and seasoned experience.
The marathon route, which has remained largely unchanged over the years, offers a picturesque tour of Paris, featuring landmarks like the Place de la Concorde and the Opéra Garnier. Athletes traversed the course at an average pace of around 10 km/h, with refreshment stations strategically placed every 5 kilometers to support the runners.
Weather conditions played a role in the marathon experience, with forecasts predicting rain and temperatures around 15°C. Despite the less-than-ideal weather, spirits remained high as runners took on the challenge with determination.
As the day unfolded, the excitement of the marathon was palpable, with thousands of spectators cheering on the participants. The event was broadcasted live across 190 territories, allowing fans worldwide to witness the excitement of the Marathon de Paris.
In a sport where endurance and mental fortitude are paramount, the Marathon de Paris continues to be a testament to the human spirit. With Biwott's remarkable performance and Hirpa's thrilling victory, the legacy of this iconic race only grows stronger. As the dust settles on this year's marathon, all eyes will be on these athletes as they prepare for future competitions, undoubtedly leaving their mark on the world stage.
