• The first battle of the year brings together Kipngeno, Pattis, Muthoni, Alonso and many more in Japan
  • Over 300 athletes from 28 countries will compete on a spectacular, technical and intense 21.3 km course with 2,100 meters of elevation gain
  • Salomon and Warner Bros. Discovery Sports Europe join forces to expand the circuit’s global reach, with a new CSR program and a refreshed visual identity

KOBE, JAPAN — The Golden Trail World Series 2025 raises the curtain this April 19 in Japan, launching a season that will be more international, technical and thrilling than ever. Nine races, spread across some of the most iconic landscapes on the planet, will test the world’s top trail runners in a format that balances spectacle, strategy, and sustainability.

Kobe, in the mountainous heart of the Land of the Rising Sun, will be the starting point of a circuit that blends athletic intensity with the cultural diversity of each host venue. From Asia to the Americas, passing through Europe, the GTWS 2025 promises epic battles, unique courses, and a global storyline that will unfold race after race.

AN EXPLOSIVE AND STRATEGIC COURSE

With its 21.3 kilometers and 2,100 meters of elevation gain, Kobe Trail stands out as one of the most technical and demanding routes on the GTWS circuit. Not only because of its physical difficulty, but also due to the technical and strategic elements that push runners to their limits from the very first meter. One particular feature makes this race unique: it starts with a descent, forcing athletes to manage their efforts differently from the beginning and sending their legs straight to the limit.

The route is designed in a “flower” layout, with multiple loops that not only simplify logistics, but also allow for constant spectator engagement—making it a true show for local fans and those following the action live on social media.

All of this, framed within the natural and cultural setting of Kobe, makes this event one-of-a-kind, where the intensity of trail running blends with Japanese tradition. Last year’s winning times say it all: 2:22:17 for Patrick Kipngeno and 2:52:08 for Maude Mathys.

FAVORITES, LOCALS AND UP-AND-COMERS: THE MEN’S ELITE LINEUP IN KOBE

Patrick Kipngeno (Kenya - run2gether On Trail) will undoubtedly be the man to watch in Kobe. The Kenyan runner not only won the race in 2024 but also set the course time with a formidable 2:22:17, in a performance that bordered on technical and strategic perfection. His ability to fly uphill and remain efficient on the descents makes him a fearsome competitor on courses like this one. Last year, he finished second in the overall GTWS rankings, with standout wins like the one in Four Sisters (China). His resume also includes two world titles in vertical races and several silver medals in classic formats. He currently leads both the UTMB and ITRA rankings.

Sylvain Cachard (France - Hoka) arrives in Kobe as one of the fastest runners on the circuit, with solid experience in high-demand scenarios. European Classic Champion in 2022, Cachard has shown that, beyond speed, he’s also skilled at adapting to technical routes like the one in Japan. Notable results include a 4th place at Sierre-Zinal in 2023 and several victories in races such as Skyrace des Matheysins.

Philemon Kiriago (Kenya - Sky Runners Kenya) has proven to be far more than just a rising talent. In 2024, he finished fourth in the overall GTWS standings after a strong and versatile season, including highlights like second place at Headlands (USA) and third at Mammoth Trail Fest. He was Classic distance world runner-up in Innsbruck and also finished second at Sierre-Zinal 2024.

Daniel Pattis (Italy - Brooks) closed out the 2024 season with a commendable 5th place in the GTWS standings. A runner with huge potential, he’s shown remarkable competitive maturity, especially on technical courses—where he’s most comfortable.

Japanese fans will have plenty of reason to follow the race closely, with the presence of Omi Ryo Ryunosuke (Salomon) and Ruy Ueda (Ueda Team), two of the country’s most prominent athletes. Ryunosuke, young and explosive, thrives in short distances and fast paces. Ueda, on the other hand, is one of the most recognized names in Japanese trail running.

This season opener will also be a chance to see how the next generation is shaping up. Fabián Venero (Spain - Salomon)faces his first major international challenge after standing out in the Golden Trail National Series. Diego Menéndez (Spain - Asics) and Iu Net (Spain - La Sportiva) round out a trio of young talents full of ambition and potential.

THE WOMEN’S FIELD IN KOBE: TOP CONTENDERS

Kobe Trail will also deliver a high-level women’s race, featuring seasoned athletes, rising stars, and explosive profiles that suit the technical demands of the course. The separate starts for men and women—one of GTWS’s trademarks—ensures a race with its own identity and full spotlight for the top female runners.

Joyce Muthoni Njeru (Kenya - NNormal) is the reigning Golden Trail World Series 2024 champion. Known for her consistent wins in short, fast races that aren’t overly technical, she is one of the top favorites. Last year, on a course that doesn’t fully match her strengths, she placed fourth with a time of 2:59:41.

Sara Alonso (Spain - Asics) was second in Kobe in 2024 with a time of 2:58:34. The Spaniard combines power and technique on demanding routes and heads into this season looking to deliver her best performance from the very first round.

Mădălina Florea (Romania - Scott) prepared for the season at altitude, training in Kenya. Sixth in the GTWS overall in 2024, she also took an impressive third place at Sierre-Zinal. Her all-around profile and consistency make her a serious podium threat.

Malen Osa (Spain - Salomon) delivered a standout 2024 season, finishing third in the overall GTWS rankings thanks to strong performances like second place at Zegama-Aizkorri and fifth in Kobe. At just 22 years old, she’s already a force to be reckoned with in the world of trail running.

Japan will be represented by Takako Takamura (NNormal) and Honoka Akiyama, who will compete at home with the extra motivation of defending local pride in a race that embodies the spirit of Japanese trail running.

RACE TIMES AND LIVE COVERAGE

The race will take place on Saturday, April 19, with the following start times:

  • Women’s race: 13:05 local time (JST) / 06:05 CET / 21:05 PDT (Friday 18)
  • Men’s race: 13:35 local time (JST) / 06:35 CET / 21:35 PDT (Friday 18)

Both categories will face the same course: 21.3 kilometers and 2,100 meters of elevation gain—one of the most technical tracks on the circuit.

As usual in the GTWS, the event will feature live coverage on its official social media platforms, with real-time updates, videos, split times, and key moments. In the weeks following the event, full highlights will be available in over 100 countries across five continents, on Eurosport (Europe) and other WBD channels and streaming platforms such as Max / HBO Max and discovery+ or TNT Sports (UK and Ireland).

KOBE: WHERE SPIRITUALITY MEETS MODERNITY

In this city, runners are immersed in local culture, the respect for nature and mountain spirituality is felt in every step. Located in the Kansai region of southwest Japan, Kobe is a coastal and mountainous city that balances modernity and tradition.

After the Meiji Restoration, Kobe was one of the first Japanese ports to open to international trade. This openness attracted foreign communities and turned the city into a symbol of cultural exchange. Today, it remains recognized as a bridge between East and West, with historic neighborhoods, Western-influenced architecture, and a rich cultural blend.

It is also known for its deep connection to nature and its sacred landscapes, making it the perfect setting to open a global circuit.

THE NEW GTWS: A GLOBAL BOOST

In a week full of announcements, Salomon and Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) Sports Europe have unveiled a partnership to broadcast and expand the international reach of the GTWS. Through this agreement, WBD Sports Europe will oversee the production and distribution of the coverage, promote the series across digital platforms, and lead global marketing to attract future sponsors and partners.

GTWS has also launched a new Corporate Social Responsibility program, with full details to be announced at the 2025 Grand Final. In addition, a bold new visual identity has been revealed, featuring more contrast, energy, and visual impact—reflecting the intensity of the circuit itself.

GTWS 2025 CALENDAR

Here’s a reminder of the nine races that make up the official Golden Trail World Series 2025 calendar:

  • April 19 – Kobe Trail – 21.3 km / 2,109 m D+ – Kobe, Japan
  • April 26 – Jinshanling Great Wall Trail Race – 24.2 km / 1,489 m D+ – Chengde, Hebei, China
  • May 17 – Il Golfo dell’Isola Trail – 26 km / 1,400 m D+ – Noli, Italy
  • May 25 – Zegama-Aizkorri – 42 km / 2,736 m D+ – Zegama, Spain
  • June 22 – Broken Arrow Skyrace – 21.7 km / 1,433 m D+ – Olympic Valley, USA
  • June 29 – Tepec Trail – 32 km / 1,800 m D+ – Huasca de Ocampo, Mexico
  • August 2 – Salomon Pitz Alpine Glacier Trail – 23.5 km / 1,700 m D+ – Pitztal, Austria
  • August 9 – Sierre-Zinal – 31 km / 2,200 m D+ – Sierre, Switzerland
  • October – Grand Final – Valle di Ledro, Garda Trentino