LONDON – The excitement is palpable as the TCS London Marathon 2025 kicks off today, April 27, at 8:30 AM London time (9:30 AM Italian time). This year’s marathon promises to be one of the most spectacular in its 45-year history, featuring an elite field of athletes that may be the most competitive ever seen. Legends of the marathon, Olympic champions, and talented debutants will clash for records and prestige, with a special prize pool of £112,000 for those who finish under 2:02:00 (men) or 2:15:00 (women).
The men's race is set to be headlined by Eliud Kipchoge, widely regarded as the greatest marathon runner of all time, who returns to London for the first time since 2020. At 40 years old, Kipchoge is looking to secure his fifth London title, having previously clocked a best time of 2:01:09. However, the competition will be fierce. Among the favorites is Jacob Kiplimo, a 24-year-old Ugandan making his marathon debut after shattering the world half marathon record with a time of 56:41 in February. Race director Hugh Brasher has called Kiplimo's debut "the most fascinating ever."
Other prominent athletes include Olympic champion Tamirat Tola, 2024 London Marathon winner Alexander Munyao, record debutant Sebastian Sawe, who ran 2:02:05 in Valencia, and Milkesa Mengesha, the 2024 Berlin Marathon champion. Yeman Crippa will also be competing, aiming to reclaim the Italian marathon record.
The women's race is set up for an epic showdown between Sifan Hassan and Tigist Assefa, two of the fastest female marathoners in history. Hassan, the reigning Olympic champion, made a stunning debut in London last year, finishing in 2:18:33 despite a brief pause for stretching. Following her bronze medals in the 5000m and 10,000m at the Paris Olympics, she is undoubtedly one of the favorites. Assefa, a former world record holder, brings her experience and speed to the race. Other contenders include Joyciline Jepkosgei, the 2021 London champion, and Megertu Alemu, who finished in 2:16:34.
Stella Chesang, who ran 2:18:26, adds to the impressive lineup of women capable of running fast times. The Italian athlete Sofia Yaremchuk will also be in contention, hoping to improve upon her previous best.
As the marathon unfolds, the world will watch eagerly as these elite athletes push their limits, chase records, and demonstrate the spirit of competition that defines the London Marathon. With the sun shining and the excitement in the air, the stage is set for a thrilling race.
Jacob Kiplimo, who has been the talk of the running world, is excited about his marathon debut. "I know many people believe I could be the first to run under two hours, but everything will depend on how my body responds tomorrow," he stated to the BBC. Kiplimo has certainly set high expectations for himself, especially after his half marathon performance.
Eliud Kipchoge, who made history by running a marathon in under two hours during the Ineos 1:59 Challenge, remains optimistic about breaking the two-hour barrier officially. "We’re not too far from that day," Kipchoge said, emphasizing his determination to inspire others as he competes at 40.
The London Marathon features a remarkable field, including the Ethiopian Tamirat Tola, who won gold at the 2024 Paris Olympics, and the Kenyan Sebastian Sawe, who has made headlines with his impressive debut time. Sawe, who won the Valencia Marathon in December 2024, has set personal bests that make him a serious contender.
In the women's race, Sifan Hassan is returning to London after her stunning debut last year. "I took a long break after the Olympics to recharge physically and mentally," Hassan said. She feels prepared for the challenge ahead and is eager to compete against Assefa and others.
The absence of Ruth Chepngetich, the world record holder, and Peres Jepchirchir, the defending champion, has shifted the focus to Hassan and Assefa. Assefa, who improved the world record to 2:11:53 in Berlin, is looking forward to the race and ready to battle against Hassan and her other competitors.
As the race progresses, all eyes will be on the elite runners as they navigate the course, pushing past the iconic landmarks of London. The atmosphere is electric, filled with the cheers of fans and the determination of the athletes. Will Kipchoge claim another title? Can Kiplimo live up to the hype? And who will emerge victorious in the women's race?
With a perfect day for racing ahead, the stage is set for an unforgettable London Marathon. As the clock ticks down to the start, anticipation builds among both competitors and spectators alike. The world of athletics is ready to witness history in the making as these incredible athletes take on the challenge of the London Marathon.
