Running News Daily

World Marathon Majors 2025: New Course Changes and What Runners Need to Know

Runners around the world are gearing up for three of the biggest events on the calendar: the Berlin Marathon, the Chicago Marathon, and the New York City Marathon.Each race is unveiling exciting updates for 2025 — from faster surfaces to new cultural highlights — offering fresh challenges and opportunities for participants.

Here’s what you need to know to be race-day ready.

Berlin Marathon: Smoother Streets, Even Faster Times

Already renowned as the fastest marathon course in the world, the BMW Berlin Marathon just got even quicker. Organizers have repaved and widened sections around Potsdamer Platz, easing congestion and improving traction through one of the race’s critical midpoints.

These upgrades are designed to maintain Berlin’s reputation as the ultimate destination for record-breaking performances.

Runner Tip:With smoother streets and fewer bottlenecks, it’s easier than ever to go out too fast. Stick to your pacing plan early and aim for a strong negative split.

Chicago Marathon: New Start Waves and a Redesigned First 5K

The Bank of America Chicago Marathon is expanding to accommodate more runners — and to make the race experience even smoother.In 2025, a new start wave has been introduced, and the first 5K has been slightly re-routed through Grant Park and downtown streets, designed to spread out the field more efficiently right from the start.

Runner Tip:Double-check your assigned start time and corral location. Race morning logistics have changed, so plan your arrival and gear check accordingly.

New York City Marathon: Harlem Takes Center Stage

The TCS New York City Marathon will showcase even more of the city’s cultural richness this year, with an extended stretch along Harlem’s iconic 125th Street.Runners will experience the vibrant heart of Harlem as they push into the later miles of the race, energized by new cheering zones and historic landmarks.

The new section introduces some gentle hills, but overall course adjustments will keep the marathon distance precise.

Runner Tip:Incorporate hill training into your final race prep. Tackling Harlem’s rolling terrain with strength can give you the edge you need heading into the final miles.

Final Thoughts

The World Marathon Majors continue to evolve, and 2025’s updates are designed to make these iconic races even more exciting for runners and fans alike.Whether you’re chasing a personal best, a Boston qualifier, or simply soaking in the atmosphere of a world-class event, being prepared for these course changes will help you make the most of race day.

While the Boston and London Marathons have already taken place earlier this year, runners can expect more changes ahead for 2026.Boston is planning minor updates to its downtown finish area to improve spectator access and athlete flow, while London is expected to introduce a fully carbon-neutral race plan, pushing even further toward sustainability.

Berlin’s speed, Chicago’s smooth new start, and New York’s cultural celebration — every race offers a new story this fall.