Tokyo, Japan - The 2025 Tokyo Marathon is set to kick off on Sunday, March 2, marking the first event of this year's World Marathon Majors and attracting the world's elite long-distance runners. Defending champion Benson Kipruto of Kenya, who established the course record of 2:02:16 last year, leads the men’s field filled with fierce competition.
Returning to defend his title, Kipruto, who also claimed a bronze medal at the Paris Olympic Games last summer, has focused his training on maintaining his racing form. Following his extraordinary win last year, he remarked, “I had to overcome obstacles to achieve success, and now I aim to prove my consistency.” His challengers include Joshua Cheptegei from Uganda, who, having dominated the track with golds at the Olympics and World Championships, is transitioning to the marathon as he seeks to continue his success.
Cheptegei, who set astonishing records of 26:11 for the 10,000m, expressed his excitement for the marathon, stating, “It’s time for me to rise again. I hope to leave my mark here, just as I did during the Olympics.” This will mark his second marathon after finishing 37th at the 2023 Valencia Marathon with a time of 2:08:59, but he’s optimistic about improving his performance this weekend.
“I believe I can achieve something special; my goal is to run at least 2:04,” Cheptegei added.
Another significant athlete making headlines is the legendary British runner Paula Radcliffe, who is making her comeback to marathon running at the age of 51. A three-time champion of the London and New York Marathons, Radcliffe's world record of 2:15:25 stood for 16 years until 2019. At the Tokyo event, Radcliffe shares her sentiments, stating, “I don’t have time goals. It’s about enjoying the experience and the camaraderie of the race.” She plans to participate not only in Tokyo but also the Boston Marathon six weeks later, aiming to become part of the prestigious Six Star Finishers group.
Completing the elite lineup is Ethiopia’s Sutume Asefa Kebede, who holds the Japanese all-comers' record of 2:15:55. Her most recent successes include finishing second at the Chicago Marathon and retaining her title at the Tata Steel Kolkata World 25K. Kebede reflects on her ambitions: “Each time I race, I want to be the best version of myself. The competition is fierce, but I believe I have the strength to defend my title.”
The women’s field also includes Rosemary Wanjiru, who returns after winning the Tokyo Marathon last year, and Tigist Ketema, whose impressive debut at the Dubai Marathon earned her significant recognition. With strong contenders like Ketema, Ethiopia's Gotytom Gebreslase, and former world record-holder Brigid Kosgei (who has withdrawn from this year’s race), the marathon promises to be intensely competitive.
Tokyo Marathon 2025 organizers anticipate over 38,000 participants, with 18,000 coming from approximately 130 countries, making it one of the most international marathons. This year’s race is also pivotal for Japanese athletes as it serves as the selection event for the World Athletics Championships set to take place later this year.
The Tokyo Marathon Foundation recently opened the annual Tokyo Marathon EXPO, featuring 83 booths of partners, showcasing the latest sports gear, and providing exciting opportunities for participants and fans alike. Activities included updates on gear, demonstrations, and interactive engagements. Notably, the EXPO welcomed volunteers and athletes, with many first-time runners eager to experience the Tokyo Marathon atmosphere.
Looking at the gender dynamics of the event, the inclusion of both elite and amateur runners signifies a celebration of camaraderie and achievements. “I’ve always been interested in the community aspect of marathons. It’s incredible to connect with runners from all over the globe who share the same passions,” noted one first-time participant.
Run enthusiasts and spectators will be able to catch all the action live on various platforms, including FloTrack, starting at 7:00 PM ET on the eve of the race, Saturday, March 2. The event promises to set the stage for some of the top marathoning performances as athletes will navigate the challenging Tokyo course, aiming for personal bests and perhaps even world records.
The Tokyo Marathon is not only about racing but also about building connections and inspiring future generations of runners. With thrilling races and athletes from around the world, it bears witness to the spirit of determination, resilience, and camaraderie across the global marathon community.