The 7 most prestigious marathons in the world: the Abbott World Marathon Majors
Every year, millions of running enthusiasts take on the 42.195 kilometres of the marathon, a distance steeped in legend.
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The Tokyo Marathon
Date: 2 March 2025
The youngest member of the Majors family (founded in 2007), the Tokyo Marathon is the only Asian race on the circuit. Its flat course takes in the emblematic districts of the Japanese capital, offering a unique blend of modernity and tradition. Although the race is held in winter, heat and humidity can present an extra challenge. Every year, only 40,000 participants out of 300,000 applicants get the chance to take part in this unique experience.
The Boston Marathon
Date: 21 April 2025
Founded in 1897, it is the oldest marathon in the world. Steeped in tradition, it is held every year on Patriots' Day. Its hilly course is formidable, with the famous Heartbreak Hill putting runners' legs through a severe test at the 34th kilometre. Taking part in Boston means entering history and tackling one of the most selective courses.
The London Marathon
Date: 27 April 2025
London, a capital of spectacle and solidarity, hosts one of the most popular marathons. Its festive atmosphere, its 50,000 participants and a sightseeing course passing Tower Bridge and Buckingham Palace make it an unmissable race. London is also recognised as the biggest fundraiser for charities of any marathon.
Read also: Marathon: the year's best times
The Sydney Marathon
Date: 31 August 2025
The newest of the Majors, Sydney joined the elite in November 2024. It is the first major marathon in the southern hemisphere. Founded in 2001, it celebrates the legacy of the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games every year. Its course, which offers spectacular views of the Opera House and the Harbour Bridge, is already attracting the world's elite runners.
The Berlin Marathon
Date: 21 September 2025
This is the marathon of speed. World records fall here regularly thanks to its ultra-flat course and long straights. Berlin is an unmissable event for those dreaming of a personal best. The race's recent history has been shaped by the feats of Kenya's Eliud Kipchoge, the world record holder.
The Chicago Marathon
Date: 12 October 2025
A city of contrasts, Chicago offers a fast marathon route, running through the city's 29 neighbourhoods and along Lake Michigan. Every year, a million spectators gather to cheer on the participants, making the race even more memorable. It is also a chance to discover a legendary city, the birthplace of many cultural and sporting innovations.
The New York Marathon
Date: 2 November 2025
This is the flagship event of the marathon calendar. Founded in 1970, it is as demanding as it is breathtaking. Running through the five boroughs of the Big Apple, the course finishes in grand style in Central Park, in front of thousands of spectators. With more than 50,000 participants every year, New York is a celebration of sport and effort.
South Africa soon among the elite of marathons?
Other cities could soon join the Majors circle, notably Cape Town (South Africa) and Shanghai (China), which are being evaluated for 2026 and 2027.
Note that taking part in all 7 marathons is an achievement in itself. Completing the first six (excluding Sydney) earns entry to the prestigious 6-star Finishers club, a global recognition that inspires thousands of runners every year. With Sydney's arrival, the challenge becomes even bigger for the most ambitious marathon runners.