Kimetto is looking to reclaim past glories at the Dubai Marathon against the likes of decorated Ethiopian marathon great Lelisa Desisa.
Sunday, January 12, the 2025 Dubai Marathon will mark its 24th edition with a stellar line-up of elite athletes from across the globe.
Held under the auspices of the Dubai Sports Council, the race will see thousands of runners converge near the iconic Burj Al Arab, offering a vibrant start to the new year in the UAE.
Sisay Lemma is looking to replicate his 2024 success at this year’s Boston Marathon but Kenyans John Korir and Cybrian Kotut are among those standing in his way.
Headlining the event is Kenyan marathon great Dennis Kimetto, the former marathon world record holder and champion of the Chicago, Tokyo, and Berlin marathons.
Kimetto is set to make a strong statement following a relatively subdued 2024 season, which marked his return to competitive running after a five-year hiatus.
His comeback journey began at the 9th Access Bank Lagos City Marathon, reigniting hopes of a return to his former glory.
Kimetto’s affinity for the UAE dates back to 2012 when he triumphed at the Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon. Now, he faces stiff competition in Dubai, including from Ethiopian legend Lelisa Desisa.
Desisa, a two-time Boston Marathon champion (2013, 2015) and winner of the New York Marathon (2018), has a storied history with the Dubai Marathon.
His breakthrough victory in 2013 set the stage for a glittering career, capped by his World Marathon Championship title in Doha in 2019.
The showdown between Kimetto and Desisa promises to be a highlight of the event.
The women’s race is equally packed with talent, headlined by Ethiopia’s Tigist Girma, Zeineba Yimer, and Dera Dida. With personal bests of 2:18:52, 2:19:07, and 2:19:24 respectively, these athletes are poised to deliver a thrilling contest.
Their presence underscores Ethiopia’s continued dominance in long-distance running as they battle for top honours.
)
Eliud Kipchog endured an uncommon torrid season in his illustrius decorated career.
As one of the world’s premier marathons, the Dubai Marathon has consistently attracted top-tier athletes and running enthusiasts.
This year’s edition, less than two weeks into the new year, promises a blend of seasoned champions seeking redemption and rising stars eager to leave their mark.
