On Sunday, April 6, 2025, the streets of Milan came alive with the 23rd edition of the Wizz Air Milano Marathon, a vibrant event that saw 10,200 runners from over 100 nations competing for glory. The marathon kicked off at 8:30 AM from the iconic Piazza del Duomo, a location that has become synonymous with the city’s rich sporting culture. The atmosphere was electric as participants prepared to tackle the challenging yet scenic loop course designed for speed and smoothness.
The men’s race was dominated by Kenyan Eklana Langat, who showcased his incredible talent and endurance to secure victory, while Ethiopian Shure Demise Ware made headlines in the women’s division with a stunning performance. Ware clocked in at 2 hours, 23 minutes, and 31 seconds, marking the fastest time recorded in Italy for women this year, solidifying her place among the elite marathon runners.
The marathon course was meticulously designed to traverse the heart of Milan, with the first 16 kilometers winding through the city center. Runners passed by notable landmarks such as Cairoli, Conciliazione, and Pagano, before heading towards Monte Stella, the Ippodromo, San Siro, and the Parco di Trenno. As they reached the 28th kilometer, the route began its return to the city center, passing through the Parco del Portello and Corso Sempione, ultimately leading to the finish line at the Arena Civica.
Alongside the main marathon, the UniCredit Relay Marathon added to the excitement, commencing at 9:00 AM from Piazza del Duomo. This relay event featured a record 4,000 teams, totaling 16,000 runners, showcasing the community spirit and enthusiasm for running. The relay course concluded at via Palestro, where festivities continued with the Milano Marathon Charity Program, highlighting the event's commitment to social responsibility.
As participants raced through the streets, numerous road closures were implemented to ensure safety and smooth operations. Key closures began at 7:30 AM, affecting major thoroughfares such as Piazza Duomo, Via Mengoni, and Via Santa Margherita, and continued throughout the day to accommodate the marathon's progress. The Duomo metro exits were also temporarily closed until 9:30 AM, with all other exits reopening except for the hospitality area, which remained closed until 4:00 PM.
The route's design, focusing on speed, has proven effective in recent years, and this year’s edition was no exception. With the successful execution of the marathon and relay events, organizers have set a high standard for future competitions. The Milano Marathon continues to not only celebrate athletic prowess but also to foster a sense of community among participants and spectators alike.
In addition to the individual achievements, the event highlighted the importance of charity, with the Charity Village located near the finish line at the corner of via Marina. This initiative has become a staple of the Milano Marathon, with various organizations participating and raising funds for their causes.
As the day unfolded, the camaraderie among runners was palpable, with many sharing their experiences and motivations for participating. The spirit of competition was complemented by the joy of communal celebration, making the event a highlight on the Milan sporting calendar.
With the sun shining and the streets filled with cheers, the 2025 Milano Marathon proved to be a remarkable event, showcasing not only athletic excellence but also the vibrant culture of Milan. As runners crossed the finish line, they were met with applause and encouragement from thousands of supporters, encapsulating the essence of what makes the Milano Marathon a beloved tradition.
As the marathon concluded, participants and spectators alike reflected on the day’s achievements, setting a hopeful tone for future events. With plans already in motion for the next edition, the Milano Marathon is poised to continue its legacy as a premier running event in Italy.
