The Malta Marathon is set to hit record numbers in 2025 as organisers announced that 1,500 foreign athletes have already confirmed their participation in the 40th edition scheduled for Sunday, February 23.
Details about the 2025 LifeStar Malta Marathon were announced to the media by race organiser Joe Micallef, and LifeStar chairman Paolo Catalfamo.
Micallef said that more than 1,500 foreign athletes from over 60 countries are travelling to Malta for the 2025 race.
In addition to the marathon and half marathon, there will also be a walkathon, a non-competitive event with a recreational purpose, covering the distance of 21.0975km.
Last year’s marathon winners Alaa’ Hrioued and Jemina Farley will again be on the starting line alongside Moroccan Sanaa Achahbar, winner of the half marathon.
“We are receiving many registrations from athletes from all over the world every day; there is great interest in the event,” Micallef said.
“In 2025 we will be celebrating the marathon’s 40th edition and we are gearing up to experience one of the most important sporting moments in its history with a record number of participants.”
Micallef added that this time last year there were only 800 registered foreign athletes travelling to Malta for the 2024 LifeStar Malta Marathon.
“When considering that for the 2024 LifeStar Malta Marathon we had a total of 1,930 registered foreign athletes who in the end travelled to Malta, we are expecting the number for 2025 to be well over 3,000. These, together with their accompanying friends and family, are all tourists who contribute to Malta’s economy in the shoulder months,” Micallef said.
“The 2018, 2019 and 2020 editions all welcomed over 2,300 registered foreign athletes who flew to Malta for the marathon. The next edition will certainly see a record of foreign athletes taking part in 2025 LifeStar Malta Marathon.
“Maltese and foreigners living in Malta are also on the rise, which will likely see a record number of athletes taking part.”
LifeStar chairman Paolo Catalfamo, said: “We’re excited to once again sponsor Malta’s marathon because it highlights the importance of health and community, as well as the resilience of its organisers.
“Running is about pushing our limits and supporting each other along the way. By investing in events like this, we hope to inspire more people to prioritise their wellbeing and take the right steps towards better health… one kilometre at a time.”
Following last year’s success, the 2025 edition of the LifeStar Malta Marathon will, for the second consecutive year, be broadcast live on TVM Sport.
Victor Camilleri, from Pembroke Athleta AC, will once again be organising a kids fun run which will be held at the finish in Sliema, while the Full Marathon is in progress. Close to 700 children are expected to take part.
Micallef announced that a 5 km will be run for the first time. Part of the proceeds will be donated for charity to Caritas, Puttinu Cares and Hopexchange Malta.
During the conference, awards were presented to Andrew Grech, winner of the international road running circuit, Running Sicily, and the Evolve Endurance Club, the first overall in the men’s team classification.
