During an official press conference, the organizers of the Wizz Air Sofia Marathon announced the main highlights in the preparation for one of Bulgaria’s largest sporting events. They presented the marathon’s new vision — focused on higher quality, scale, and international prestige — which places the athletes’ experience at the center and elevates the event to the next level.

In 2025, the race will set a new record with over 8,000 registered participants from 66 countries, who will take their places at the starting line on October 11 for the 5 km mass run, and on October 12 for the 10 km, 21 km (half marathon), and 42 km (marathon) distances. Competitors from 66 nations will participate, according to the official start lists available on the marathon’s website: www.sofiamarathon.bg.

Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports Dimitar Georgiev congratulated the organizers and emphasized the marathon’s importance for the development of Bulgarian sport.

“It is a great honor for the ministry to support such an event. It’s wonderful to see the number of participants grow each year. We’re proud that Sofia has its own marathon, which is becoming more popular and of higher class every year. I believe this progress will continue in the years ahead.”

Chairman of the Sofia – European Capital of Sport Foundation, Dimitar Shalafov, added:

“On a day marked by sports — as we welcome our silver medalist volleyball players — we once again affirm our support for Bulgarian sport and are proud to be at the core of organizing Sofia’s and Bulgaria’s largest sporting event, the Wizz Air Sofia Marathon. Each year, it reaches new records in participation and public interest. ‘Sofia – European Capital of Sport’ continues its partnerships with institutions, clubs, and organizations to promote an active and healthy lifestyle for citizens and visitors. The marathon is the crown jewel among over 200 sports events held annually.”

Sports Director Militsa Mircheva shared:

“Once again, elite athletes from leading global marathon schools will be at the start. Among them will be last year’s champion, who will defend his title on the same course, as well as the women’s champion from the Varna Marathon this spring. We also expect the fifth-place finisher from the World 100 km Championships. Our goal is to raise the level every year. As you know, I’ve always been on the other side, and now it’s a pleasure to take on the role of Sports Director of the Wizz Air Sofia Marathon. It’s a great responsibility, but also a joy, thanks to the dedicated team working on the new vision of the event. I believe both runners and spectators will notice the change we are striving for together.”

She added:

“Due to the extremely high interest and the reached limit of over 8,000 participants, we had to close registration earlier than planned. This decision was made to ensure a high-quality and safe experience for every participant — from the course and aid stations to logistics and security.”

Organizing Director Anatoli Iliev highlighted the marathon’s social cause:

“Once again, the event has a charitable mission — a donation of 4,000 BGN will support athletes with special needs, including Radena Angelova, our alpine skier with Down syndrome and the only Bulgarian representing our country at international competitions in this sport. This initiative aligns with our goal to promote accessible sports opportunities for everyone, including people in disadvantaged groups.”

Georgi Stanoilov from 5km Run outlined the structure of the refreshment points:

“There will be eight refreshment stations along the route and one at the finish line. Each station will be hosted in partnership with a different brand, whose employees will act as volunteers. They are highly motivated to support the runners, and each brand has prepared surprises for both participants and spectators. Five music stages will also be set up to enhance the festive atmosphere.”

Technical Director Nikolay Stoilov commented on the course:

“The positive feedback from last year’s route gave us reason to keep it unchanged. Only the start times have been adjusted, and they’re already available on our official website www.sofiamarathon.bg. There you can also find details about race pack collection and the traditional Marathon Expo, which will take place between October 8–12, featuring companies focused on sports and active living.”