4,000 runners, 63 nations and one historic finish set for La Valette Marathon 2025 on Sunday

On Sunday morning, Malta welcomes 4,000 runners from 63 countries and over 925 cities for the fourth edition of the Visit Malta La Valette Marathon – an event that has rapidly grown from a local passion project into one of the Mediterranean’s most meaningful athletic and cultural experiences.

Held in honour of Grand Master Jean Parisot de Valette, who led Malta to victory in Vittoriosa during the Great Siege 460 years ago, the marathon invites runners not only to compete but to journey through centuries of Maltese history, architecture, and resilience.

Elite Competition on Historic Ground

Since its inception, the Visit Malta La Valette Marathon has drawn an elite field of Olympians and internationally acclaimed long-distance athletes.

This year’s race features Thijs Mathisen Nijhuis, Denmark’s Olympic representative and current course record holder; Cosmas Kigen, a decorated Kenyan marathoner; and Chelangat Sang, one of Kenya’s most promising talents on the women’s circuit.

Joining them are top contenders Fredrich Kiprotich Boiyo, Jesper Faurschou, Martin Østergaard Olsen, and Omar Hassan.

The local field is headlined by Dillon Cassar, Malta’s half-marathon record holder, and long-time competitor Andrew Grech, both of whom exemplify the strength of Maltese distance running.

Together, they form a field that bridges elite performance with national pride.

A Medal of Honour: Commemorating Malta’s Spirit

To mark this milestone edition, every finisher will receive a 2025 La Valette Marathon commemorative medal, created not only as a symbol of personal triumph, but as a tribute to Malta’s storied past.

The medal prominently features the eight-pointed Maltese cross, a historic emblem of resilience and honour; the shield of Grand Master Jean de Valette, in homage to his leadership during the siege; and a motif inspired by traditional Maltese tilework, echoing the island’s artistic heritage.

The La Valette Marathon insignia completes the design – uniting each runner’s journey with Malta’s national legacy.

“This medal is not just a keepsake,” said founder Matthew Pace.

“It’s a reminder of the endurance, courage and identity that this event – and Malta – stand for.”

Start Times and Race Locations

The 2025 event spans six race categories and multiple starting points, each chosen to showcase Malta’s varied terrain – from country roads to coastal promenades:

Full Marathon (42.195 km) – 6:30am ­– ­Manikata, Triq Għajn Tuffieħa

Half Marathon (21.1 km) – 7am – Tower Road, Sliema

21 km Walkathon – 7:10am –  Exiles, Sliema

10 km Race – 8am – Pixkerija, Valletta

5 km Race – 8:30am MCAST Hill, Paola

1 km Kids Fun Run – Throughout the morning at designated locations

All races conclude at the Vittoriosa Waterfront, where the official awards ceremony followed by live music and celebratory activities for families and spectators.

Cultural Tourism in Motion

The La Valette Marathon has proven to be more than a race.

With over 2,991 international runners registered this year, it now serves as a strategic entry point into Malta’s tourism offering – drawing high-value visitors who are passionate about destinations rich in heritage, natural beauty, and authenticity.

Since launching in 2022 with just 722 participants, the event has expanded nearly sixfold, reflecting not only a surge in global running interest but also Malta’s appeal as a cultural-sporting destination.

Each of the 4,000 runners is joined by partners, families, and support teams, bringing an estimated 6,000 to 7,000 visitors to the island – many arriving during the shoulder tourism months of February, March, and April.

Visit Malta’s Strategic Attraction

Behind this cultural-sporting synergy is the core organising team of Matthew Pace, founder and endurance athlete; Michela Pace, marketing lead with deep ties to Malta’s running scene; and Francesca Scerri, the event’s operations and logistics director with a background in entertainment and events.

They are supported by Marc Stafrace, creative strategist; Charlie Demanuele, fitness and triathlon expert; and Fabio Spiteri, Malta’s celebrated ultra-endurance athlete.

The international marketing campaign for the 2025 edition was led by Brand & Bond, who worked in collaboration with Visit Malta to strategically position the marathon to audiences with a strong appreciation for cultural destinations.

By targeting key tourism and running markets across Europe and beyond, their campaign successfully attracted runners and supporters from all four corners of the globe, specifically those who value Malta’s unique blend of Mediterranean lifestyle and historical richness.

Road Closures

As with all major international sporting events, temporary road closures are in place on Sunday from 5.30am to 2pm across areas including Manikata, Sliema, Floriana, Valletta, Paola, and the Three Cities.

Residents are encouraged to plan ahead and consult lavalettemarathon.com for shuttle services, alternate routes, and live updates.

As Malta commemorates its past and celebrates the present, the organisers extend their sincere best wishes to all runners – whether they’re aiming for a personal record or soaking in the journey.

Their effort, dedication, and presence are a reflection of Malta’s enduring spirit.

The Visit Malta La Valette Marathon is powered by Electrogas.