Florence Half Marathon draws 6,000 runners through city centre

Florence is set to host around 6,000 runners for the 42nd edition of the Half Marathon Firenze on Sunday 29 March, with the event reaching full capacity nearly two months ago.

Organisers had already closed registrations in February due to high demand, confirming the race as one of the most popular running events in the city. The initiative is promoted by the Florence committee of Uisp, the Italian sports-for-all organisation.

The race will start at 9 a.m. from Lungarno della Zecca and finish in Piazza Santa Croce, crossing the historic centre along a route designed to limit disruption to traffic. The course includes a loop around key landmarks such as the Cathedral and the Baptistery, a feature reintroduced this year.

International participation and symbolic theme

Athletes from 82 countries are expected to take part, with international runners accounting for just under 40% of participants. The largest foreign group comes from France.

The 2025 edition is dedicated to the theme of peace. Before the start, runners will be able to have their faces painted with the colours of the peace flag at designated stations. The event’s mascot is Dante Alighieri, reflecting Florence’s literary heritage.

Race format and awards

The main half marathon will follow a double-loop format through the city centre, while the competitive race will complete a single loop before finishing in Piazza Santa Croce.

A total of 76 prizes will be awarded across different categories. The five clubs with the highest number of participants and the top five by points will also be recognised. The largest team will receive the Mauro Pieroni Trophy.

Practical information

• Date: Sunday, 29 March
• Start time: 9 a.m.
• Start: Lungarno della Zecca
• Finish: Piazza Santa Croce

Temporary road closures and traffic diversions are expected along the route during the morning, although organisers say the course has been designed to minimise disruption as much as possible.

(Cover photo Florence Half Marathon Facebook page)

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