VPBank Hanoi International Marathon - a catalyst for fostering a sporting spirit in the community.

With over 11,000 athletes from 25 countries and territories, this year's event continues to affirm its position as one of the leading professional and prestigious international marathons in Vietnam.

The VPBank Hanoi International Marathon officially opened on the evening of October 24th at Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square.

Celebrating the spirit of sportsmanship - fostering community prosperity.

The most anticipated annual race of the year - VPBank Hanoi International Marathon 2025 - has officially opened in the pedestrian area around Hoan Kiem Lake, with the participation of representatives from the General Department of Physical Education and Sports, the Hanoi Department of Culture and Sports, and Vietnam Prosperity Commercial Bank (VPBank) - the main organizer.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Mr. Pham Xuan Tai, Deputy Director of the Hanoi Department of Culture and Sports, affirmed that the VPBank Hanoi International Marathon is not just a race, but also a journey to discover the unique spirit of Hanoi - elegant, ancient, vibrant, and inspiring.

Mr. Pham Xuan Tai also acknowledged that the fact that the competition attracted 11,000 athletes from 25 countries and territories once again affirms the position of the Capital City - an integrated, dynamic, open city ready to spread its cultural, sports, and tourism values to the region and the world.

“We believe that events like the VPBank Hanoi International Marathon will be an important catalyst for fostering a sporting spirit among the people, promoting the image of the capital city to international friends, and creating profound and lasting community values,” Mr. Pham Xuan Tai emphasized.

Ms. Nguyen Thuy Duong, Director of Communications & Marketing at VPBank.

At the event, Ms. Nguyen Thuy Duong, Director of Communications & Marketing, representing the organizing committee, stated that VPBank aims to make this marathon a symbol of a sustainable journey towards prosperity – starting with physical health, a positive mindset, and community engagement.

“Throughout its 32-year journey of development, VPBank has consistently remained committed to its mission of “For a prosperous Vietnam,” in which community sports is one of the key strategies to spread a healthy, humane, and responsible lifestyle.”

Notably, this year's race continues its partnership with the community initiative "Planting Trees - Conserving Water - Creating Livelihoods" in collaboration with TreeBank. For each runner who completes the race, the organizers will contribute 30,000 VND to the bamboo planting project to prevent flooding in Nghe An province. At the finish line, a "Tree of Prosperity" model will be erected where participants can attach their bibs as a symbolic act of sowing the seeds of a green future for the community.

With its large scale, professionalism, wide reach, and deep sense of community, the VPBank Hanoi International Marathon 2025 is not only an international sporting event but also a cultural, tourism, and lifestyle highlight of Hanoi. In the context of the city's efforts to promote sustainable urban development, stimulate tourism, and improve the quality of life, the race serves as a model of social cooperation, with effective collaboration between businesses, the government, and the people.

A festive atmosphere in the heart of the capital city.

On October 24th and 25th, the pedestrian area around Hoan Kiem Lake became the city's focal point as thousands of athletes and residents flocked to receive bibs, race kits, and visit the Marathon Expo area. A festive atmosphere permeated the streets, showcasing nutritional products, sports equipment, gifts, and experiential activities from nearly 30 participating brands such as Coolmate, DHC, Pocari Sweat, Camel, Medlatec, AIA, LynkID, and more.

Each race kit is personalized according to distance and athlete, containing many practical items such as high-tech jerseys, energy gels, sports bags, and resort vouchers – demonstrating the organizers' meticulous investment and commitment to putting athletes at the center. The check-in area, photo booth, and interactive booths attracted a large number of young people, KOLs, and influencers from the running community to network and spread inspiration for sports.

The VPBank Hanoi International Marathon 2025 is transforming the pedestrian area around Hoan Kiem Lake into a weekend festival.

Ms. Nguyen Phuong Anh (Cau Giay ward) said: “Every time I come to receive my bib, I’m excited, but this year is especially impressive. VPBank truly transformed the race into a real festival – both professional and friendly.” Many athletes shared this sentiment, praising the continuous improvements in organization and the enhanced overall experience before, during, and after the race.

This year's race also features several notable innovations in its operation, such as a real-time timing system, automatic performance measurement, and facial recognition photography – allowing athletes to easily track their results and preserve memories in a modern way. With distances of 5km, 10km, 21km, and 42km meeting AIMS standards, the VPBank Hanoi International Marathon provides opportunities for both amateur and professional athletes to conquer challenges, improve their performance, and aim for international competition.

VPBank Prime Night Music Event: A triumphant start to a sporting journey.

On the evening of October 24th, as part of the race's opening ceremony, tens of thousands of spectators and runners immersed themselves in the enthusiastic atmosphere of the VPBank Prime Night music event – one of the highlights of the series. The participation of renowned singers RHYDER, Ha Nhi, Vu Thao My, Juky San, and DJ KS created a vibrant and colorful musical feast.

The stage lights, modern music, and enthusiastic crowd created an inspiring evening of interaction. According to many athletes, the concert was not only a morale booster before the race but also a place to connect with the community, igniting positive energy and enthusiasm.

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