The 2025 Frankfurt Marathon, scheduled for October 26, is set to feature the strongest women’s field in the event’s 42-year history. With seven elite runners boasting personal bests under 2:23:00, fans can expect an intense battle on the fast streets of Frankfurt.
Leading the pack is Kenya’s Sharon Chelimo, who arrives in top form following her breakthrough victory at the Barcelona Marathon earlier this year. Chelimo, 31, clocked an impressive 2:19:33 in Spain, slashing more than two minutes off her previous best and establishing herself as one of the top contenders in world marathon running. She is no stranger to Frankfurt, having competed there in 2023, when she posted a solid 2:22:07 finish. This time, she returns as the clear frontrunner.
Chelimo will be joined by compatriot Linet Masai, another formidable athlete with a personal best of 2:21:01. Masai, a former world champion on the track, has successfully transitioned to road racing and will be keen to prove herself against one of the deepest fields ever assembled in Frankfurt. Fellow Kenyan Catherine Cherotich, who has run 2:22:42, also adds strength to the Kenyan contingent, making it a potentially dominant outing for East Africa.
The Ethiopian challenge is equally powerful, headlined by Etagegne Woldu (2:20:03), Buze Diriba (2:20:22), Aminet Ahmed (2:21:24), and Tsige Haileslase (2:22:10). With such depth, the race is expected to be fast and highly competitive, with multiple runners capable of pushing the limits of the course record.
Last year’s edition witnessed Ethiopian Hawi Feysa smash the course record in 2:17:25, raising the standard for future competitors. With Chelimo and her rivals in peak form, another record-breaking performance is a real possibility.
Adding further intrigue is Kenya’s Betty Chepkemoi, who announced her arrival on the marathon scene with a sensational win at the Vienna City Marathon earlier this year, clocking 2:24:14 in freezing conditions. Though her personal best is slightly slower than the top contenders, her determination and recent rise make her a dangerous dark horse.
Two Ethiopian debutants, Ayal Dagnachew and Yalemget Yaregal, could also spring surprises. Both have posted world-class half marathon times of 67:08 and 66:27 respectively, suggesting that they are well prepared to make an impact over the full distance.
With a record number of entries expected, the Frankfurt Marathon promises not only an electrifying contest at the front but also a celebration of endurance running at every level.
