This is the only race among the seven major marathons that Kipchoge has yet to run. A victory in New York would complete his collection of the seven prestigious stars and earn him the $100,000 champion's prize.
Kipchoge has won 11 major marathons: four in London (2015, 2016, 2018, 2019), four in Berlin (2015, 2017, 2018, 2022, 2023), one in Chicago (2014), and one in Tokyo (2021). He has yet to win in Boston, New York, or Sydney.
 |
Eliud Kipchoge celebrates after finishing first at the Tokyo Marathon on 6/2/2022. Photo: Reuters |
Eliud Kipchoge celebrates after finishing first at the Tokyo Marathon on 6/2/2022. Photo: Reuters
The New York City Marathon is known for its challenging course. Starting in Staten Island, runners traverse five boroughs, tackling steep bridges like the Verrazzano-Narrows, Queensboro, and Willis Avenue before finishing in Central Park. The uphill section at the end, after over 40 km, is particularly grueling. This is why the race often yields slower times than flatter marathons like Berlin or Chicago, but it's considered the ultimate test of endurance and strategy.
Kipchoge has sometimes struggled on hilly courses, finishing sixth in Boston in 2023 and ninth in his Sydney debut on 31/8. However, the 40-year-old runner asserts that his training on the hills of Kaptagat, Kenya, will prepare him well for New York's demanding route. "I am eager to experience the energy of the city and its running community," Kipchoge said, "New York is a goal I have long awaited."
In the men's race at the 2025 New York City Marathon, Kipchoge will face formidable competitors: defending champion Abdi Nageeye, the 2022 and 2023 Boston and 2022 New York champion Evans Chebet, and the 2021 Boston, 2022 Chicago, and 2024 Tokyo champion Benson Kipruto.
 |
Sifan Hassan wins the Sydney Marathon on 31/8/2025. Photo: EPA |
Sifan Hassan wins the Sydney Marathon on 31/8/2025. Photo: EPA
Sifan Hassan is the top contender in the women's race. "New York is a legendary race," the Dutch runner said, "I love a challenge and will be ready to face the world's best."
Hassan has won four out of six marathons in just two years since transitioning to the 42.195 km distance. She won London in 2023 and Chicago in 2023, took gold at the 2024 Paris Olympics, and recently broke the record in Sydney—a new addition to the World Marathon Majors.
Hong Duy (Canadian Running Magazine)
