A star-studded field has been confirmed for the Durban International Marathon for its landmark fifth edition on 4 May 2025, featuring world-class athletes from across Africa.
East African Powerhouses Lead the Charge
Headlining the men’s field is Ethiopia’s Berhanu Teshom Bekele, whose 2:08:20 personal best makes him the fastest in the field. He’ll face stiff competition from Kenyan Kiprotich Felix Kirui and Ethiopian compatriot Teshom Girma Tadese in what promises to be a tactical battle.
Last year’s runner-up, Matthews Leeto leads the South African charge. Having run a solid 2:09:48 in 2024, Leeto could more than well challenge for the title this year.
The women’s race features Ethiopian star and 50km world record holder, Emane Seifu Hayile. She’ll be challenged by rising stars Bize Beer Negasa (Ethiopia) and a strong contingent of Southern African athletes.
Southern Africa’s Finest Ready to Shine
As host of the CAA Southern Region Marathon Championships, the event showcases regional talent including Zambia’s Mathews Mutanya, Namibia’s Paulus Haitope, and South Africa’s Tumelo Motlagale.
A Platform for Global Ambitions
Durban has become the proving ground for Africa’s next generation of marathon stars.
With Tokyo qualification at stake and our improved course, we’re expecting fireworks. Last year’s record-breaking performances showed what’s possible here.
Steve Mkasi, Chairman of the LOC
A Course Built for Speed
Against the backdrop of Durban’s golden beaches and subtropical warmth, the 2025 edition is poised to deliver another chapter of racing history, following last year’s record-breaking performances by Elroy Gelant (2:09:33) and Cian Oldknow (2:29:46).
The marathon’s scenic route winds along Durban’s breathtaking coastline before sweeping through the city’s vibrant heart, combining flat roads with near-perfect racing temperatures. Recent refinements, including the removal of the promenade section, have further optimised the layout.
“Few races offer this combination of natural beauty and racing pedigree,” Mkasi added. “From the Golden Mile to Moses Mabhida Stadium, our course gives athletes every chance to excel.”
Elite Men
- Berhanu Teshom Bekele (Ethiopia) – 2:08:20 (Dubai, 2019)
- Teshom Girma Tadese (Ethiopia) – 2:10:24 (Hengshui, 2019)
- Kiprotich Felix Kirui (Kenya) – 2:10:59 (Wuhan, 2024)
- Tamru Mekonnen Legesse (Ethiopia) – 2:13:28 (Seoul, 2019)
- Naol Gemechu Dameshu (Ethiopia) – Debut (10km PB: 29:07, Granollers 2022)
- Pacemaker: Tukiso Motlomelo (Lesotho) – 2:17:10 (Cape Town, 2024)
Elite Women
- Emane Seifu Hayile (Ethiopia) – 2:30:23 (Cape Town, 2023)
- 50km World Record: 3:00:30 (Gqeberha, 2023)
- Bize Beer Negasa (Ethiopia) – 2:40:50 (Belgrade, 2024)
- Lelse Birhanu Bero (Ethiopia) – 2:44:16 (Beirut, 2022)
- Meseret Biru Fita (Ethiopia) – Half Marathon: 1:19:56 (Kalba, 2023)