Massive crowds witness record breaking TCS Sydney Marathon

Tens of thousands of spectators and supporters have today lined the route of the first running of the TCS Sydney Marathon presented by ASICS as an Abbott World Marathon Major event.

Marking a significant milestone in Australian marathon history, large crowds backed the elite runners and the 35,000 overall participants along the 42.195 kilometre course - from the start line in North Sydney, to crossing Harbour Bridge, following a circuit around Darling Harbour and into Sydney's Eastern Suburbs before its finish in front of the Sydney Opera House.

The event offered fan engagement initiatives that created a vibrant atmosphere at multiple 'live sites' - with music, DJs and entertainment - spread long the course.

Beyond the official Live Sites, numerous entertainment zones along the course provided energy and support.

As the newest World Marathon Major, the 2025 event generated immense global interest, with images of the race being broadcast worldwide and significantly enhancing Sydney's reputation.

On course, the race was Australia’s fastest marathon of all time, with all four course records were shattered, with the men’s and women’s marathon champions clocking the fastest times ever run on Australian soil and the men’s and women’s wheelchair winners posting the fastest marathons ever wheeled in the nation’s history.

Sifan Hassan of the Netherlands delivered a commanding performance to achieve victory in the women’s marathon, breaking the tape in 02:18:22. Her run not only set a new course record but also marked the fastest marathon ever completed by a female athlete on Australian soil, eclipsing the previous all-comers and course record of 02:21:41 set by Workenesh Edesa Gurmesa of Ethiopia in 2024.

Hailemaryam Kiros of Ethiopia triumphed in the men’s race with a time of 02:06:06, marking the fastest marathon ever run by a male on Australian soil. His run shaved 12 seconds off the previous record of 02:06:18, set in Sydney last year by Brimin Kipkorir Misoi of Kenya, and set a new benchmark for elite marathon performance in Australia.

Commenting on the success of the event, TCS Sydney Marathon Race Director, Wayne Larden stated "we’re absolutely thrilled with today’s results, both on and off the course.

“The record-breaking performances and the incredible turnout have truly cemented this year’s event as a milestone in Australian marathon history.

"It’s a testament to the hard work of everyone involved and further highlights Sydney’s position on the world stage in our first year as an Abbott World Marathon Major.”

The TCS Sydney Marathon is supported by the NSW Government via its tourism and major events agency, Destination NSW. The event is owned by Australian Athletics and managed by Pont3.

Images show action and support from the TCS Sydney Marathon.