Essential Information for the 2025 adidas Manchester Marathon: Runners and Spectators
The eagerly anticipated adidas Manchester Marathon, renowned as one of Europe’s premier long-distance running events, is set to take place on Sunday, April 27, 2025. This year, an impressive 36,000 runners will participate in this sold-out event, forming part of what is being heralded as the Largest Day of Marathon Running in the UK.
With a combined total of 90,000 marathon participants taking to the courses in both Manchester and London that day, the event promises not only to be a spectacular athletic showcase but also a major contributor to the local economy. In addition, it is expected to raise significant funds for numerous charities, including The Christie, Cancer Research UK, Alzheimer’s Society, and British Heart Foundation. A commitment of £40,000 is also being directed toward local community projects, including sustainability initiatives like City of Trees.
Marathon Route Overview
The marathon will encompass a scenic route through key areas including Stretford, Sale, and Altrincham, before returning via Chorlton-Cum-Hardy and Hulme, ultimately concluding on Oxford Road. For those looking to preview the route, a video is available on YouTube, along with a detailed route map and logistical information accessible from the Participant Hub.
Event Start Times
The elite races will kick off at 9:00 AM, featuring prominent competitors like last year’s winner Adam Clarke and runner-up Melissah Gibson. Following the elite races, waves of mass participants will commence their runs at 10-minute intervals, ensuring that all 36,000 entrants have embarked on their marathon journey by 11:50 AM.
Start Location and Logistics
The starting area will be conveniently located near Manchester United FC’s Old Trafford ground. Participants will find clear signage directing them towards bag drop facilities and restrooms, with marshals to assist in guiding everyone to the starting line beneath the Trafford Arch. Additional information regarding bag drop and FAQs can be found on the event’s official site.
Travel Arrangements
To ease transit to the marathon start, participants are encouraged to utilize public transport, including local Metrolink and rail services. Park and Ride options are also available at locations such as East Didsbury and Sale Water Park. For real-time updates, the Bee Network website and local social media channels will be essential resources.
Pacing and Support Services
Each starting wave of the marathon will include designated adidas pacers, identifiable by flags indicating their target completion times ranging from 2:45 hours to 6:00 hours. Details about pacers can be found on the event’s website.
Road Closures and Access
Due to the marathon, several roads along the route will be closed, and this may lead to increased traffic in surrounding areas. Participants and spectators are advised to plan their travel accordingly, with many bus routes affected by the closures. Further details on road closures can be consulted online.
Route Amenities
Participants will encounter eight water stations throughout the marathon, each equipped with restrooms. The locations of water stations and gel supplements from HIGH5 will be published on the event’s route page, allowing runners to plan their nutritional strategy beforehand.
Finish Line Details
This year marks a new finish line positioned in the city’s vibrant center on Oxford Road, with the University of Manchester providing a stunning backdrop for the concluding moments of the race. Local businesses will be offering promotions for finishers and their families during the weekend.
Viewing the Marathon
Spectators are expected to flock to Greater Manchester’s streets, with an anticipated turnout of over 140,000 supporters. To facilitate their cheering experience, the Supporter Hub offers maps and prime viewing locations. A downloadable guide is also available, featuring family-friendly activities and dining options in the area.
Special Activities by adidas
From April 24 to April 27, 2025, the adidas Adizero: For The Fast pop-up will operate at Impossible Manchester. Open to all, this venue will feature shake-out runs, exclusive product showcases, panel discussions, and various engaging activities. On race day, the adidas & Made Running Cheer Point will be set up at mile 1, enhancing participant motivation along the route.
Future Events
Looking ahead, the adidas Manchester Marathon is scheduled to return on Sunday, April 19, 2026. Interested participants can sign up now to receive priority access for next year’s event before general entries open.