Big backdrop and records: The 42nd Vienna City Marathon is waiting!

Big backdrop and records: The 42nd Vienna City Marathon is waiting!

On Sunday, April 6, 2025, the 42nd Vienna City Marathon (VCM), which has established itself as one of the largest and most remarkable sporting events in Vienna. Around 45,000 participants, including almost 13,000 at the marathon distance of 42.195 km, have already registered, which is a new record. The event not only attracts runners; Around 400,000 spectators are expected to support the runners along the route.

The event is expected to be carried out in cold weather, a fact that could influence both the participants and the audience. On this day, the marathon route will lead across Vienna, with various roads and bridges being blocked. Information about the roadblocks and the route is provided by Radio Vienna and Wien.orf.at.

reporting and live broadcasts

The reporting begins on Sunday morning: Preliminary reports can be seen live in ORF 2 from 8:30 a.m. before ORF 1 at 8.55 a.m. with the live broadcast of the marathon start begins. The commentators Dietmar Wolff and Michael Buchleitner will accompany the action until 12.30 p.m. A special highlight of the reporting is the transfer of the targets of the hobby runners from 12.40 p.m. at the OSP. Former top runner Valentin Pfeil will report live from the perspective of the participants.

Overall, the transfers use around 21 cameras, including drones and a helicopter camera, to capture the event from different perspectives. In addition, there will be comprehensive reporting on Sport.orf.at, ORF on and in ORF teletext, where live streams, video-on-demand, preliminary spaces and analyzes are available.

festivities and special events

The marathon is particularly all about Johann Strauß this year. Before the start, there will be waltz rounds that underline the festive atmosphere. Five preliminary competitions, including the “Inclusion Run” and the new “bat” for children, take place on Saturday. The "Cheering Zones" with music and drummer groups along the route should ensure additional motivation and mood.

For the audience, three public viewing areas are set up - at the opera, the parliament and in the target area, in order to be able to experience the atmosphere of the marathon intensively.

traffic adjustments and security

The streets in the first district will be closed in sections from Saturday, 12.45 p.m., and the target area on the ring will be closed from Friday evening to Sunday afternoon. Drivers are asked to switch to the subway or express railway on Sunday, as numerous roadblocks and diversions are to be expected. The roadblocks that could significantly influence the traffic in the city center start from 4.30 a.m.

The Ö3 traffic service will inform live about the current roadblocks and traffic situations to show residents and visitors the best options. The Viennese lines will offer more frequent connections on Sunday to ensure the mobility of the audience and participants.

With such extensive reporting and the many events around the Vienna City Marathon, Vienna once again shows his ability to successfully organize large events. Preparations are in full swing to offer both athletes and fans unforgettable experiences. The comprehensive reporting also confirms the importance of the marathon for the city and the organized sporting events as a whole.

For further details and updates regarding the Vienna City Marathon, including traffic and weather information, the audience can also consult Radio Vienna and the ORF website.