2025 race celebrates 460th anniversary of the Great Siege victory
The La Valette Marathon proudly returns for its 4th edition on March 23, 2025, marking a historic milestone – 460 years since the Victory of the Great Siege of 1565, a defining moment in Maltese history led by Grandmaster Jean Parisot de Valette.
More than just a race, the La Valette Marathon and half marathon are the only AIMS-certified marathon in Malta and Gozo, delivering an unparalleled running experience through history, coastal beauty, and Mediterranean energy.
As of 2025, the La Valette Marathon is officially recognized by World Athletics and Abbott World Marathon Majors. This means that Maltese athletes aiming for global recognition can now qualify for any of the six major marathons (Boston, New York, Berlin, London, Tokyo, and Chicago) only through this event.
With increasing global prestige, the marathon continues to solidify its reputation as Malta’s premier long-distance race.
In just four years, the La Valette Marathon has seen exponential growth.
At the time of writing, bookings are already 30% more compared to 2024, participation is surging daily as runners from over 50 countries secure their spots.
The event’s showcase at the Birmingham Expo generated immense interest among international running communities, reinforcing the marathon’s appeal as a must-run event for travelers and athletes alike.
The La Valette Marathon is more than just a race – it’s a journey through 7,000 years of history, offering participants 42km of breathtaking coastal views, beachside paths, and storied towns.
The route winds through Malta’s fortresses and cultural landmarks, allowing runners to experience UNESCO World Heritage Sites firsthand.
As participants traverse the course, they will pass by iconic landmarks such as the Valletta Triton Fountain, the imposing Fort St Elmo, and the historic Fort St Angelo.
These sites not only highlight Malta’s rich cultural heritage but also offer runners a unique opportunity to experience the island’s storied past firsthand. Participants will cross the finish line with a stunning view of Valletta and the Grand Harbour in Vittoriosa, where history meets triumph.
The event offers other AIMS certified race options for all, including 5K, 10K, Half Marathon, and the Full La Valette Marathon. Runners can also enjoy the legendary Maltese spirit and the best of seaside accommodations, local culture, and hospitality.
Notably, among the world-class athletes participating this year is Austria’s Julia Mayer, who represented her country in the women’s marathon at the 2024 Paris Olympics, finishing with a time of 2:31:19.
Additionally, the marathon has seen remarkable performances in previous editions.
In 2024, Danish runner Thijs Mathisen Nijhuis, who represented Denmark at the Tokyo Olympics, set a new course record by finishing in 2:25:12.
In the women’s category, Sylvia Mmboga Medugu from Kenya secured victory in 2:46:02.
With its growing global presence, official recognition from the world’s most prestigious athletics bodies, and a route that immerses runners in the heart of Malta’s past and present, La Valette Marathon 2025 promises to be the most memorable edition yet.
RACE CATEGORIES
Full Marathon (42.195 km) – Start: 6:30 AM from Manikata, Triq Għajn Tuffieħa
Half Marathon (21.1 km) – Start: 7am from Tower Road, Sliema.
21 km Walkathon: Start: 7:30am
10 km Run: Start: 8am from Valletta, Pixkerija.
5 km run – Start: 8:30am from MCAST Hill, Paola.
For more info and registrations, visit www.lavalettemarathon.com.
Author
