Wizz Air Milano Marathon 2025: A Celebration of Sport and Community
On April 6, 2025, Milan will come to life as the city hosts the highly anticipated Wizz Air Milano Marathon and the UniCredit Relay Marathon, featuring an impressive lineup of 35,000 runners. Recognized as the fastest marathon in Italy, this year’s event marks its 23rd edition, offering thrilling moments for participants and onlookers alike.
Race Day Schedule and Scenic Route
The marathon will officially commence at 8:30 AM in the iconic Piazza del Duomo, with the UniCredit Relay Marathon starting at 9:00 AM. The marathon spans a distance of 42.195 kilometers, taking runners on a scenic loop through some of Milan’s most famous landmarks. Participants will navigate the magnificent city center, traversing areas such as Cairoli, Conciliazione, and Pagano, before heading towards notable sites like Monte Stella, the Hippodrome, and the renowned San Siro Stadium.
Refreshments and Festivities Along the Route
As participants tackle the challenging course, they will encounter over 11 refreshment stations strategically placed every 5 kilometers. These stations are designed to keep runners hydrated and energized throughout their journey. The atmosphere is set to be festive, with more than 30 designated cheering points and five DJ stations strategically located along the route, creating an electrifying experience for both runners and spectators.
The UniCredit Relay Marathon: Teamwork for a Cause
The UniCredit Relay Marathon allows teams to split the marathon distance into four segments ranging from 6.5 to 13 kilometers each, promoting camaraderie and teamwork. Beyond the athletic challenge, the relay aims to make a significant societal impact, targeting a fundraising goal of 2 million euros for 103 non-profit organizations through the Rete del Dono platform. This charitable aspect highlights the marathon’s commitment to community support and engagement.
Impact on Milan’s Public Transport and Roads
To accommodate the massive influx of participants and spectators, significant changes to the public transport system in Milan will be implemented. The M1 and M3 subway lines will bypass the Duomo stop until 9:30 AM, while numerous tram and bus routes will experience detours from 7 AM to 4 PM. Key tram lines—including 1, 2, 4, 10, 12, 14, and 19—and various bus lines will be affected. This comprehensive planning ensures the safety and smooth operation of transport for everyone involved on race day.
Elite Athletes and Competition Highlights
This year, the Wizz Air Milano Marathon is set to attract elite athletes from around the globe, all vying for top honors. High-profile competitors include Kenyan runners such as Raymond Choge, Bygon Kiprono, Timothy Kipchumba, Abraham Kiptoo, and Bethwel Yegon. They will face formidable challenges from Fikre Bekele and Aron Kifle in the men’s category, while the women’s race showcases exceptional talent from athletes like Haftamnesh Tesfay and Shure Demise, promising an exciting competition.
Experience the Marathon Live or from Home
For those unable to attend the event in person, the marathon will be broadcast live on Sky Sport Arena from 8:20 AM to 11:30 AM, allowing fans to follow the race from the comfort of their homes. This coverage ensures that the marathon reaches a wider audience, promoting Milan as a vibrant hub of culture and activity.
A Celebration of Community and Healthy Living
The 2025 Wizz Air Milano Marathon stands not just as a race but as a symbol of community spirit and inclusivity, bringing together participants from diverse backgrounds, including an estimated 5,500 international runners. The event promotes health, fitness, and charitable giving, reinforcing the importance of community engagement. As anticipation builds, both runners and supporters look forward to a remarkable day filled with energy, excitement, and the scenic beauty of Milan.