Running News Daily

Boston Marathon 2025 Race Preview and Predictions - Can one of the Americans pull off an upset?

The 129th Boston Marathon is set for Monday, April 21, 2025 in just over a month, once again taking place on Patriots’ Day in Massachusetts. This year’s edition marks the first under the sponsorship of Bank of America, signaling a new chapter for the world’s oldest annual marathon. With an elite field packed with world-class runners and unpredictable spring weather, the race promises another thrilling showdown from Hopkinton to Boston.

Race Details & Course Overview

The Boston Marathon’s iconic point-to-point course spans 26.2 miles, starting in Hopkinton and ending on Boylston Street in Boston’s Copley Square. Runners will navigate rolling hills, including the challenging Newton Hills and the infamous Heartbreak Hill at mile 21. The course favors experienced runners who can manage both the early downhill sections and the later climbs.

Weather will be a key factor, as New England’s spring climate is unpredictable. Ideal conditions for runners would be cool temperatures around 45–50°F with overcast skies and a tailwind, but past races have seen everything from heatwaves to freezing rain. Early forecasts suggest favorable conditions, but as always, runners must be prepared for anything.

Men’s Elite Field

The men’s race features defending champion Sisay Lemma, who is aiming to retain his title after a dominant performance last year. Evans Chebet, the 2022 and 2023 champion, returns hungry to reclaim the crown. John Korir, fresh off a victory at the Chicago Marathon, brings world-class speed that could shake up the competition.

A strong American contingent is headlined by Conner Mantz and Clayton Young, both of whom finished in the top ten at the Olympic marathon. Mantz, in particular, has shown outstanding form, recently breaking the American half marathon record. CJ Albertson, a familiar name in Boston for his bold racing tactics, will also be in the mix, potentially pushing the early pace.

The race is expected to be tactical, with the Newton Hills playing a decisive role. If the pack remains tight through Heartbreak Hill, it could come down to a late-race battle along Boylston Street.

Women’s Elite Field

Hellen Obiri returns seeking a historic third consecutive Boston Marathon title, a feat not accomplished in over two decades. Known for her lethal finishing speed, Obiri has mastered the Boston course and will be the woman to beat.

Challenging her will be Amane Beriso, the reigning world marathon champion, and Yalemzerf Yehualaw, a former London Marathon winner with sub-2:17 speed. Sharon Lokedi, last year’s runner-up, will also be in contention, having nearly edged out Obiri in a dramatic finish.

The American field is deep, with contenders including Sara Hall, Keira D’Amato, Emma Bates, and former champion Des Linden. While breaking into the top three will be a challenge, a top-five finish is within reach for the top U.S. women.

Predictions & Final Thoughts

The men’s race is expected to be a battle between the experienced champions and rising American stars. If the race is fast from the start, runners like Korir and Lemma may have the edge. However, if it becomes a strategic affair, Mantz and Young could position themselves for a breakthrough performance.

On the women’s side, Obiri’s experience and closing speed make her the favorite, but the depth of the field suggests another closely contested race. If Beriso or Yehualaw can push the pace early, it could disrupt Obiri’s plans for a late kick.

With a historic Patriots’ Day celebration and an elite field ready to compete, the 2025 Boston Marathon is shaping up to be an unforgettable race. Whether defending champions hold their ground or new winners emerge, all eyes will be on Boylston Street this April.