The Opap Limassol marathon is set to return on March 22 and 23, 2025, with a record-breaking 17,000 participants, it was reported on Friday. Of these, 3,000 will travel from abroad to compete in what is becoming one of the island’s premier sporting events.

At a press conference at Limassol’s municipal hall, mayor Yiannis Armeftis expressed his pride in hosting the event once again. He described the marathon as not just a race, but a celebration of sport’s core values: effort, perseverance, and fair competition.

“This event energises our city each March, creating a remarkable atmosphere where healthy competition thrives,” said Armeftis.

He emphasised that these values make the marathon an important force for promoting healthier societies.

The marathon’s routes along Limassol’s beautiful seafront provide runners with an exceptional setting.

“Every step in this race reflects the passion and strength of the human spirit,” Armeftis added, thanking all those involved in the event’s organisation, from volunteers to sponsors.

The mayor also revealed that he would take part in the 5-kilometre race.

Spyros Spyrou, president of eleven blue events, the organising company, highlighted the marathon’s growth and its charitable contributions. Since 2019, the event has raised over €250,000 for local charities through a special fundraising platform.

“We continue to welcome runners of all abilities, especially those with special needs who embody the true spirit of the marathon by overcoming their personal challenges,” said Spyrou.

He also pointed out that sustainability remains a key focus, with the marathon working to reduce carbon emissions and promote recycling.

This year’s event will see more than 250 corporate teams participating in the 5 km Primetel corporate road race, involving over 10,000 people. Meanwhile, the Andrey & Julia Dashin’s foundation youth race will see approximately 2,000 children racing in the 1 km event.

On March 23, competitive runners will face the challenge of the full Opap marathon (42 km), the Muskita half marathon (21 km), the Petrolina energy race (10 km), and the Axlebolt individual race (5 km). These races are recognised by the Cyprus athletics association (Koeas) and will feature athletes from around the world.

Ceo of Opap Cyprus, Alexandros Davos, shared his company’s long-standing commitment to supporting the Limassol Marathon.

“For nine years, Opap has been proud to sponsor this event, which connects the present with the past,” he said.

Davos noted that the marathon pays tribute to Greek marathon legends like Spyridon Louis and Stelios Kyriakides, both of whom embodied the values of sport and competition.

The marathon will also take runners through the historic city of Amathus, combining athleticism with a journey through Limassol’s rich history.

“This race is a true symbol of culture, and we are honoured to be part of it,” Davos added.

Antigoni Papafilippou, public relations director at Ant1, the event’s media partner, confirmed that the race would receive extensive coverage, including live broadcasts on television, radio, and online.

“We aim to showcase the significance of this event and bring the energy of Limassol’s seafront to viewers everywhere,” she said.