The start times for men’s and women’s marathon races at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Japan, have been brought forward by 30 minutes.

According to the Local Organising Committee, the women’s marathon set for Sunday, 14th September, will now start at 1.30 am instead of 2.00 am, earlier than scheduled, due to expected elevated heat conditions that could pose a health and safety risk to competing athletes.

The men’s marathon scheduled for Monday 15th September will also start at 1.30am Kenyan time.

Equally, all road events on the first three days of the World Athletics Championships Tokyo 2025 will start 30 minutes earlier than scheduled.

Despite the World Championships being scheduled for mid-September, when temperatures were expected to be lower than during the summer in Tokyo, levels this year have remained at those of mid-summer.

“Reflecting the current environment, World Athletics and the Local Organising Committee (LOC), in consultation with the World Athletics Health & Science Department, have taken this decision that puts the highest priority on athletes’ health and safety, and it has been communicated to the athletes as early as possible to allow them to prepare and adjust to the new start time. Both World Athletics and the LOC are fully committed to making the World Championships the best possible experience for athletes and a successful event.” Read the statement from World Athletics.

However, the start times for all the track events will remain unchanged.

Magdalyne Masai, Jackline Cherono and Peres Jepchirchir will represent Kenya in the women’s marathon, while Vincent Kipkemoi, Erick Kiplagat, Kennedy Kimutai and Hillary Kipkoech will be Kenya’s flag bearers in the men’s 42 km race.