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Postponed in 2024 due to the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, the Beirut Marathon returns this Thursday, May 1st, with thousands of runners expected and a message of peace to convey. A race that defies the calendar, unites hearts, and puts Beirut back on track.
This Thursday, May 1st, the streets of the capital will vibrate to the rhythm of strides, cheers and the breath of the 20,000 expected runners – including 14,600 paying registrants and 5,400 free participants, proudly representing 38 countries. An edition unlike any other, postponed then relaunched, always driven by the same flame: running together, united, to make Lebanon shine.
Thursday Instead of Sunday? Same Passion, Same Mission
Initially scheduled for Sunday, May 4th, the Beirut Marathon was moved forward to May 1st to avoid clashing with the municipal elections. A calendar twist that could have caused disruptions – but instead galvanized the troops. For in a country where every day is a challenge, what could be more symbolic than rescheduling a marathon to ensure it happens no matter what?
This 21st edition will be held under the high patronage of the President of the Republic, Joseph Aoun. A strong gesture that underscores the national and symbolic importance of the event, which has become over the years a pillar of the Lebanese sports scene.
And as tradition dictates, a 5 km warm-up race was held Wednesday morning along the corniche, in a friendly atmosphere, with no awards or breakfast. This “Shake Out Run” allowed participants to test their stride and get acquainted less than 24 hours before the big start.
A Race, a Symbol
Launched in 2003 by May al-Khalil, after a car accident that could have cost her her life, the Beirut Marathon has become an institution. The Beirut Marathon Association (BMA) is preparing to organize its 21st edition in a context still marked by instability, but with undiminished energy. After the cancellations of 2019 and 2020, and the postponement of the 2024 edition due to the Israel-Hezbollah conflict, the event returns even stronger.
During the previous edition, a remote format had been devised to raise funds for displaced families. This year, the goal is clear: to return to the pavement, together, to carry a message of peace. As one volunteer put it:
“Here, we don’t run to flee... We run to stay.”
38 Nations at the Start, Lebanon at the Finish
From Kenya to Ethiopia and across the Arab world, elite runners will be present. Eight top-level athletes from East Africa will attempt to break the marathon records (2h10’31 for men, 2h27’48 for women), according to race director Irabi Nael.
By their side: a human tide of enthusiasts, amateurs, families, para-athletes, youth, veterans and members of the Lebanese diaspora. All driven by the same desire: to run to share, to exist, to resist.
The races offer:
- 42.195 km: The marathon for the tireless
- 21.1 km: The half-marathon, a perfect balance of effort and speed
- 10 km (handisport): For athletes with disabilities
- 10 km (competitive): For explosive runners
- 5 km: Charity, festive and associative race
- 1 km: For the youngest or great causes
Race, Cause and Heart: BMA’s Triptych
Beyond performance, the Beirut Marathon is a vast platform of solidarity. This year, 30% of registrations for the 5 km race will be donated to 21 local NGOs. A race where every step counts, especially when it is for others.
Eco-responsibility remains at the heart of the organization: 13 green stations, 50 sorting bins and sustainable logistics to respect Beirut and the planet.
Stage, Security and Show
The start and finish will take place at the Beirut Waterfront, to the sound of music: the official song, composed by Jean-Marie Riachi and written by Nizar Francis, will be broadcast. Although Melhem Zein will ultimately not be present, singer Saad Ramadan will perform during the award ceremony at 10:30 AM, followed by traditional dances until 4 PM.
Regarding traffic, the Internal Security Forces announced a complete closure of the race course starting at 1 AM Thursday, with vehicle traffic banned from 5 AM until the end of the race around 1 PM. The objective: maximum safety for all.
Let’s run from the end to the beginning, so that Lebanon stands tall!
The slogan of this 2025 edition is more than a rallying cry. It is a promise. That of a country that sometimes stumbles but never gives up. And knows how to get back up… running.
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