The adidas Manchester Marathon 2025 has made headlines as 36,000 participants signed up to take on 26.2 miles in vibrant Greater Manchester with blue skies accompanying them round the course. History was made today as the UK’s top two marathons coincided making it the largest day of marathon running in the UK.

This year’s event saw the introduction of a stunning new Oxford Road finish line, framed by the iconic University of Manchester, providing a fitting finale for thousands of participants. The streets from Altrincham to Sale and Chorlton to Manchester city centre were packed with more than 140,000 spectators delivering the famously electric atmosphere, while over 110,000 viewers tuned into the event’s popular live stream.

Over half of this year’s runners were first-time marathoners, including women’s second-place finisher Olivia Tsim, who completed her debut marathon just seven months after giving birth to her daughter. The elite fields impressed as Josh Griffiths won the men’s title in 2:16:56, while Tessa McCormick claimed the women’s crown in 2:34:53.

Fundraising efforts also broke records, with over £4 million already raised for hundreds of causes, surpassing last year’s £3.5 million total. Official charities included Alzheimer’s Society, British Heart Foundation, Cancer Research UK, and The Christie Charity, with donations still pouring in.

Organisers commented post race: “To see thousands cross the finish line, many for the first time, on the UK’s largest ever day of marathon running, is incredibly special. We’re proud to celebrate this moment with everyone who made it possible.”

The adidas Manchester Marathon will return on Sunday 19 April 2026. Runners can sign up now for priority access ahead of public entries opening on Tuesday 29 April.

If you'd like to know more, visit the Manchester Marathon website.

Image: adidas Manchester Marathon