The Chicago Marathon 2025 is one of the world’s premier running events, attracting thousands of runners and spectators from around the globe. Scheduled for Sunday, October 12, 2025, the event will see the city of Chicago transform into a massive celebration of endurance, community, and athleticism. Whether you’re a participant, a supporter, or a fan, staying updated through Chicago Marathon tracking is essential to experience every exciting moment.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Chicago Marathon tracking, including start times, live streaming options, the Chicago Marathon 2025 route, and how to track Chicago Marathon runners in real time.
🕓 What Time Does the Chicago Marathon Start?
One of the most common questions is: “What time does the Chicago Marathon start?”
The Bank of America Chicago Marathon 2025 typically kicks off early in the morning. Based on previous schedules, the official start time is around 7:20 a.m. (CT) for the wheelchair division and 7:30 a.m. (CT) for the main runner waves.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the expected Chicago Marathon 2025 start times:
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Wheelchair Start: 7:20 a.m.
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Handcycle Start: 7:25 a.m.
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Wave 1 Start: 7:30 a.m.
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Wave 2 Start: 8:00 a.m.
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Wave 3 Start: 8:35 a.m.
If you’re following from another country, be sure to adjust for your local time zone. For example, in Bangladesh, the Chicago Marathon start time would be 6:30 p.m. local time.
🗺️ Chicago Marathon 2025 Route and Map
The Chicago Marathon route 2025 is one of the flattest and fastest marathon courses in the world — perfect for runners aiming to set a personal best or qualify for other major marathons.
The Chicago Marathon map features a scenic 26.2-mile (42.195 km) course through the city’s diverse neighborhoods, offering stunning views and energetic crowds throughout.
Highlights of the Chicago Marathon 2025 route include:
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Start Line: Grant Park, downtown Chicago
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Mile 3: Lincoln Park Zoo area
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Mile 8: Old Town and North Avenue
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Mile 13: West Loop & Greektown
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Mile 18: Pilsen neighborhood
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Mile 23: Chinatown
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Finish Line: Back in Grant Park
The marathon route Chicago design ensures runners experience Chicago’s cultural diversity, from the skyline views along Lake Michigan to the cheering crowds in Chinatown. You can easily explore the Chicago Marathon 2025 map on the official event website for interactive viewing.
📱 Chicago Marathon 2025 Tracking – Follow Runners in Real Time
If you want to support a loved one or track elite runners, the Chicago Marathon tracker is your best tool. The official Chicago Marathon 2025 tracker allows you to follow participants using their bib number, name, or team.
Here’s how to use Chicago Marathon tracking:
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Download the Official App:
The Bank of America Chicago Marathon App (available for both iOS and Android) provides live tracking and updates. Search for “Chicago Marathon Tracker” in your app store. -
Enter the Runner’s Details:
You can track Chicago Marathon runners by entering their bib number or full name. The app provides split times, pace, and estimated finish time. -
Real-Time Notifications:
You’ll receive live updates as runners cross checkpoints at 5K, 10K, 15K, 20K, half-marathon, and finish lines. -
Interactive Course Map:
The app also features a Chicago Marathon live tracking map where you can see runners moving along the course in real time.
This Chicago Marathon 2025 tracking feature is ideal for spectators, family members, and fans who want to stay updated without missing a moment.
📺 How to Watch Chicago Marathon 2025 Live
Wondering how to watch the Chicago Marathon 2025? You have multiple ways to enjoy Chicago Marathon live coverage from anywhere in the world.
1. TV Broadcast:
In the U.S., NBC 5 Chicago and Telemundo Chicago usually broadcast the event live starting around 7 a.m. CT.
2. Live Stream:
You can also watch the Chicago Marathon live stream through:
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NBCChicago.com
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TelemundoChicago.com
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The official Chicago Marathon YouTube channel
The live coverage typically runs from the start to the finish, showing top elite runners, inspiring stories, and updates from the crowd.
3. Social Media:
Follow the @ChiMarathon official handles on X (Twitter), Instagram, and Facebook for Chicago Marathon live updates and behind-the-scenes content.
Whether you’re at home or on the go, you can watch the Chicago Marathon and stay engaged with every mile.
🎽 Chicago Marathon Live Tracking – Experience Every Moment
With Chicago Marathon live tracking, spectators can be part of the excitement even if they can’t attend in person. The Chicago Marathon live tracker provides precise timing and progress reports for all registered runners.
For those on-site, the Bank of America Marathon app also helps locate spectators’ areas, restrooms, and medical tents. This makes it easy to plan where to watch and cheer on participants.
Pro tip: The best places to spectate include:
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Mile 2-4: Lincoln Park
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Mile 13: West Loop
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Mile 21: Chinatown
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Finish Line Area: Grant Park
🏅 About the Bank of America Chicago Marathon
The Bank of America Marathon in Chicago is one of the World Marathon Majors, alongside Boston, New York, London, Berlin, and Tokyo. Every year, over 40,000 runners from more than 100 countries take part.
The flat course, energetic crowds, and scenic skyline make Marathon Chicago 2025 one of the best running events for beginners and professionals alike. The 2025 edition promises even more excitement, with elite athletes chasing new records and thousands running for charity.
🧭 Why Chicago Marathon Tracking Is Important
The Chicago Marathon tracking system ensures safety, accuracy, and engagement for everyone involved.
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For Runners: It records official times and splits.
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For Supporters: It helps track their loved one’s progress live.
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For Fans Worldwide: It offers real-time insights and stats.
With Chicago Marathon 2025 tracking, you’ll know exactly when your favorite runner crosses each checkpoint — from the start to the finish line.