Kenya delivered a dominant performance at the 45th Valencia Marathon on Sunday, sweeping both the men’s and women’s titles in one of the world’s fastest road races. John Korir powered to victory in the men’s race with a time of 2:02:24, the eighth-fastest marathon globally this year and just eight seconds shy of the 2025 world-leading mark. Germany’s Amanal Petros followed in 2:04:03, breaking his own national record, while Norway’s Awet Kibrab claimed third in 2:04:24.
In the women’s category, Joyciline Jepkosgei stormed to an impressive 2:14:00, the fastest women’s marathon time of 2025 and the fourth-fastest in history. Defending champion Peres Jepchirchir secured second place, finishing just 43 seconds later, while Belgium’s Chloé Herbiet took third in 2:20:38, setting a new Belgian national record.
Both Kenyan champions shattered their personal bests on Valencia’s famously fast and flat course, which once again lived up to its reputation as a record-maker. Organisers reported a record 36,000 runners taking part in this year’s edition, solidifying Valencia’s status as one of the most popular marathons in Europe.
