Shanghai Marathon unites global runners
The 2025 Shanghai Marathon brought tens of thousands of runners, including wheelchair athletes, onto the city's streets on Nov 30.
At 7 am, 23,000 runners departed from the Bund Bull, ready to take on the course and experience the pulse of the city.
As the only Abbott World Marathon Majors candidate race in China, the Shanghai Marathon continues to raise its international standards. This year's event strengthened professional services across the entire experience, from course planning to on-route supplies, creating a global, top-tier marathon.
Finnish runner Toni Janka said he chose Shanghai for his first marathon in China because of its candidate-race status and found it an exceptionally good way to experience the city.
Medical support was upgraded from previous years, with 43 medical stations set up along the route, complemented with a comprehensive medical center near the finish line and four additional medical points in key post-race areas. A multi-layered system combining fixed and mobile teams, as well as on-site and off-site support, ensured full coverage for runners.
This year also marks the 10th anniversary of the Shanghai Marathon's volunteer program. Nearly 4,400 volunteers served across more than 60 positions, from bag drop services to medical assistance and anti-doping controls.
Beyond competition, the event continued to promote good running etiquette and a culture of sportsmanship, encouraging participants to compete responsibly and respectfully.
Luo Xingchuan, who won the men's wheelchair race, said the event meets international standards and provides considerable support for wheelchair athletes.
"I'm thrilled to have improved my best time this year. Thanks to everyone who cheered me on," women's champion Brigid Kosgei said. Regarding the marathon majors bid, the Kenyan athlete added, "I hope Shanghai becomes part of the world majors. I'd love to compete here again."
The 2025 edition also offered customized travel and consumption packages for global participants, attracting runners from 26 countries and regions and inviting more visitors to fall in love with Shanghai through a single race.
🏆 This year's champions have already been crowned.
Overall winners
Men: Ethiopia's Miklesa Mengesha finished in 2:06:25.
Women: Kenya's Brigid Kosgei finished in 2:16:36.
Domestic winners
Men: Feng Peiyou finished in 2:08:36.
Women: Zhang Deshun finished in 2:25:13.
According to the post-race news conference, the 2026 Shanghai Marathon will be held on Dec 6, with registration opening no later than the end of April. Beginning in 2026, the main marathon will be complemented by a 5-km fitness run on Dec 5, which will share the same finish line to optimize the event structure and broaden public participation.
Sources: "shanghaifabu" WeChat account, Shanghai Observer, Shanghai Marathon
