The streets of Prague are preparing to welcome the world as the 30th edition of the ORLEN Prague Marathon celebrates a landmark anniversary on Sunday, May 4. One of Europe’s premier running events, the race will unite over 10,000 runners from more than 110 countries, reaffirming Prague’s status as a global capital of endurance sport.
Speaking at the official press conference at Prague City Hall, Councilor for Education and Sports Antonín Klecanda emphasized the event’s inspirational impact on the city and its citizens:
“A healthy mind in a healthy body – that’s the spirit of the ORLEN Prague Marathon. What began as a local race has become a symbol of health and vitality for residents and celebrities alike.”
Since its inception in 1995, the Prague Marathon has grown into a world-class event and the cornerstone of the RunCzech Series. It has not only endured but thrived through global challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, emerging stronger and more inclusive. This year, more than 13,000 participants are expected to take part in the marathon and its accompanying events.
Carlo Capalbo, founder of the Prague Marathon and Chairman of the RunCzech organizing committee, reflected on the event’s evolution:
“This race is where it all began. Thirty years ago, we planted a seed—and today it’s grown into something extraordinary. The ORLEN Prague Marathon is more than a race; it’s a celebration of unity, resilience, and excellence.”
The event’s international character is particularly notable: over 5,000 runners, or 54% of participants, are traveling from abroad, making the event not only a sporting highlight but a major economic and tourism driver for the city.
Libor Varhaník, President of the Czech Athletics Federation, praised the race’s role in setting a national and international standard:
“The ORLEN Prague Marathon has set the bar high—not only for road racing in the Czech Republic, but across Europe. It remains the flagship event for our national championship and an inspiration for countless other races.”
Among the elite Czech athletes fighting for the national title will be two-time Olympian Tereza Hrochová, the favorite in the women’s field. The men’s race promises an exciting clash of generations in what is expected to be a thrilling contest.
The weekend’s festivities will begin on Friday, May 2, with the opening of the Marathon EXPO, and continue on Saturday, May 3, with the ORLEN Breakfast Run and a series of family-friendly events, including the dm family mile and dm bambini run.
With 30 years of history, world-class organization, and unmatched atmosphere, the 2025 ORLEN Prague Marathon promises to be a landmark celebration of sport, city, and global friendship.
Race Start: Sunday, May 4, 2025 – 9:00 AM, Old Town Square
Website: www.runczech.com
Start of the race in 2024
Old Town Square minutes before the start
