The adidas Manchester Marathon has released key information for participants and supporters ahead of the event on Sunday 27th April 2025.
Here’s everything those planning to be involved need to know about this exciting weekend.
Race start times
Male and female elite races featuring 2024 winner Adam Clarke and Melissah Gibson (who returns hoping to better her 2nd place result last year) begin at 9:00am, with the mass field following shortly after. Waves are set off at 10-minute intervals, and at 11:50am all 36,000 participants will have started their challenge.
Getting to the start
Participants are advised to use public transport where possible to travel to and from the event, making use of local Metrolink and rail services as well as nearby Park and Ride services. These include East Didsbury, Brooklands, Navigation Road, Sale Water Park, Ladywell, and Parkway.
Participants are advised to visit the Bee Network website and follow @MCRMetrolink and @OfficialTfGM for updates on the day.
This year, the start assembly location will be adjacent to Manchester United FC’s Old Trafford ground. From this area participants will be signposted to bag drop and toilets. Marshals will direct participants to the start line under the Trafford Arch.
Pacers
Each start wave will contain adidas pacers who can be identified by a flag on their back showing a specific target time. Pacers are assigned a wide range of times, from 2:45 to 6:00 hours, across the whole event. More information on pacers can be found here.
Road closures
Road closures will be in effect along and around the adidas Manchester Marathon route. Roads in the surrounding area that are open will be very busy; those affected are advised to plan extra time for any journeys. Many bus services will also be diverted due to these closures. Find out more about road closures here.
Water stations and toilets
There are 8 water stations along the route, all of which have toilets available for participants to use.
Water stations and HIGH5 Energy Gel Aqua locations can be found in the table below and on the Route Page. The gels are a supplement to participant’s own nutrition, which they are advised to plan in advance of event day.
Finish
This year, the adidas Manchester Marathon boasts a new finish line located on Oxford Road, with the University of Manchester as a backdrop.
Many local bars and restaurants will be running promotions for finishers and their family members over the weekend.
Supporters
Over 140,000 supporters are expected to line the streets of Greater Manchester, creating the electric atmosphere the event is known for.
Friends and family are encouraged to plan their day using the Supporter Hub, which contains interactive maps and top supporter locations. There is also a downloadable Supporter and Weekend Guide with family-friendly activities, events and food recommendations.
