Running News Daily

VALENCIA, Spain — December 7, 2025

The 2025 edition of the Valencia Marathon once again delivered world-class performances, national records and an elite-deep field over a fast, flat course in near-perfect early-December conditions.

Conditions & Course — Perfect for Fast Times

The marathon started at 8:15 a.m. local time, on a flat, sea-level course that winds through wide avenues, coastal stretches, and the scenic historic center of Valencia.  

Race organizers and runners praised the combination of smooth pavement, well-organized hydration/aid stations roughly every 5 km, and benign weather — all of which contributed to ideal conditions for record-chasing efforts.  

Standout Performances & National Records

• Men’s Winner — John Korir (KEN) crossed the line in 2:02:24, setting a personal best and claiming the men’s title in dominant fashion.  

• Amanal Petros (GER) took second with 2:04:03, smashing the German national record and re-establishing himself among Europe’s elite marathoners.  

• Suguru Osako (JPN) ran 2:04:55 to finish fourth overall — a new Japanese national record and a major personal best.  

• On the women’s side, Joyciline Jepkosgei (KEN) won with 2:14:00, the fastest women’s marathon time in the world this year — and now the fourth-fastest women’s marathon performance in history.  

• Peres Jepchirchir (KEN) finished second in 2:14:43, giving Kenya a dominant 1-2 sweep in the women’s race.  

• Jessica Stenson (AUS) clocked 2:21:24, breaking the Australian national marathon record — a momentous achievement that makes her the fastest Australian woman ever over 42.195 km.  

Top Finishers — Elite Spotlight

Men 

1. John Korir (KEN) — 2:02:24  

2. Amanal Petros (GER) — 2:04:03 (German record)  

3. Awet Kibrab (NOR) — 2:04:24  

4. Suguru Osako (JPN) — 2:04:55 (Japanese record)  

5. Gashau Ayale (ISR) — 2:05:29  

6. Justus Kangogo (KEN) — 2:06:10  

7. Alex Yee (GBR) — 2:06:38  

8. Félix Bour (FRA) — 2:06:41  

9. Filmon Tefsu (NED) — 2:06:42  

10. Gemechu Dida (ETH) — 2:06:45  

Women 

1. Joyciline Jepkosgei (KEN) — 2:14:00  

2. Peres Jepchirchir (KEN) — 2:14:43  

3. Chloe Herbiet (BEL) — 2:20:38  

4. Alisa Vainio (FIN) — 2:20:48  

5. Jessica Stenson (AUS) — 2:21:24 (Australian record)  

Mass Race & Depth Behind Elites

Beyond the elite competition, the 2025 Valencia Marathon also featured a massive recreational and amateur component — true to its reputation as one of the most accessible and well-attended marathons globally. The race drew tens of thousands of runners, from competitive amateurs seeking sub-3:00 times to first-time marathoners chasing a finish line under the Mediterranean sun. The broad, flat course, combined with frequent refreshment and aid stations, plenty of crowd support, and smooth logistics helped countless runners achieve personal bests, secure Boston or other Major qualifiers, or simply check off a bucket-list marathon.

This blend of elite performance and mass participation underscores why Valencia remains a favorite among serious runners, recreational marathoners, and anyone chasing a fast, well-supported marathon experience.

The 2025 Valencia Marathon Will Be Remembered

• A world-leading women’s time (2:14:00) that now sits among the fastest five in history.  

• Multiple national records — for Germany, Japan, and Australia — in a single edition.  

• A men’s field with seven finishers under 2:05, showing the depth and quality of competition.  

• A fast, flat, sea-level course and ideal weather that once again proved why Valencia is a “time-trial” marathon.  

Valencia 2025 was not just another marathon — it was a landmark event. For runners, record-chasers, and fans, it set a high bar for what a winter marathon can deliver: speed, spectacle, and unforgettable achievements.