Whether you’re running or watching the 2025 adidas Manchester Marathon, we round up all the key info about the event
The adidas Manchester Marathon, one of Europe’s largest marathons, has released key information for participants and supporters ahead of the event on Sunday 27th April 2025. And if you’re inspired by this year and want to run in 2026 – read on!
A record 36,000 people will take on the sold-out event, contributing to the Largest Day of Marathon Running in the UK. Sunday 27th April will make history as a total of 90,000 participants take on 26.2 miles across the country’s two largest marathon stages in Greater Manchester and London.
Alongside significant economic spend set to boost the local economy over event weekend, millions will also be raised for Official and associated charities The Christie, Cancer Research UK, Alzheimer’s Society and British Heart Foundation.
£40,000 has also been pledged to local initiatives across Greater Manchester, including sustainability charity City of Trees and local sports initiatives.
Here’s everything those planning to be involved need to know about this exciting weekend.
What is the adidas Manchester Marathon route?
The adidas Manchester Marathon route takes participants through Stretford, Sale and Altrincham, before turning back through Chorlton-Cum-Hardy and Hulme, and reaching the new finish line on Oxford Road.
The event’s route preview can be viewed on YouTube here.
The full route map can be found here, with further logistics on the Participant Hub here.
What time does the adidas Manchester Marathon start?
Male and female elite races featuring 2024 winner Adam Clarke and Melissah Gibson (who returns hoping to better her 2nd place result last year) begin at 9:00am, with the mass field following shortly after. Waves are set off at 10-minute intervals, and at 11:50am all 36,000 participants will have started their challenge.
Where is the adidas Manchester Marathon start?
This year, the start assembly location will be adjacent to Manchester United FC’s Old Trafford ground. From this area participants will be signposted to bag drop and toilets. Marshals will direct participants to the start line under the Trafford Arch.
The latest bag drop and pick-up information and FAQs can be found here.
Relay participants can find all the information they need here.
How do I get to the adidas Manchester Marathon start?
Participants are advised to use public transport where possible to travel to and from the event, making use of local Metrolink and rail services as well as nearby Park and Ride services. These include East Didsbury, Brooklands, Navigation Road, Sale Water Park, Ladywell, and Parkway.
Participants are advised to visit the Bee Network website and follow @MCRMetrolink and @OfficialTfGM for updates on the day.
Are there pacers at the adidas Manchester Marathon?
Each start wave will contain adidas pacers who can be identified by a flag on their back showing a specific target time. Pacers are assigned a wide range of times, from 2:45 to 6:00 hours, across the whole event. More information on pacers can be found here.
Which roads will be closed for the adidas Manchester Marathon?
Road closures will be in effect along and around the adidas Manchester Marathon route. Roads in the surrounding area that are open will be very busy; those affected are advised to plan extra time for any journeys. Many bus services will also be diverted due to these closures. Find out more about road closures here.
Where will toilets, water and nutrition be located on the route?
There are 8 water stations along the route, all of which have toilets available for participants to use.
Water stations and HIGH5 Energy Gel Aqua locations can be found in the table below and on the Route Page. The gels are a supplement to participant’s own nutrition, which they are advised to plan in advance of event day.
Where does the adidas Manchester Marathon finish?
This year, the adidas Manchester Marathon boasts a new finish line located at the heart of the city.
36,000 people will now reach the climax of their challenge on Oxford Road, with the University of Manchester as a backdrop.
Many local bars and restaurants will be running promotions for finishers and their family members over the weekend. Find out more here.
How can I watch the adidas Manchester Marathon?
Over 140,000 supporters are expected to line the streets of Greater Manchester, creating the electric atmosphere the event is known for.
Friends and family are encouraged to plan their day using the Supporter Hub, which contains interactive maps and top supporter locations. There is also a downloadable Supporter and Weekend Guide with family-friendly activities, events and food recommendations.
What will be available from adidas over the weekend?
The new Adizero: For The Fast pop-up will open from 24th to 27th April at Impossible Manchester (36 Peters St M2 5QR). The space is open to all and will host shake-out runs, exclusive product ranges, panel discussions and a variety of other activities.
The adidas & Made Running Cheer Point will also be located at mile 1 at Deansgate Interchange on the day. Founded by Hermen Dange, Made Running is one of the biggest run clubs in the region.
Official adidas Manchester Marathon merchandise is also available on the online shop.
When will the 2026 adidas Manchester Marathon take place?
The adidas Manchester Marathon returns on Sunday 19th April 2026. Those who would like to the chance to enter next year’s event can sign-up to receive priority access now ahead of public opening.
