The Valencia Marathon Trinidad Alfonso, held on December 7, 2025, has been classified as an Elite Platinum Label event by World Athletics, solidifying its status as an international benchmark. Joyciline Jepkosgei of Kenya won the women's race in 2:14:00, the fourth-fastest time in history, and John Korir of Kenya took the men's title in 2:02:24. The event has experienced substantial growth over the past decade, with participant numbers increasing significantly and attracting a diverse international field from approximately 150 countries for the 2025 edition. Prize money has also been enhanced, with potential bonuses for record-breaking performances, making it a highly attractive event for elite athletes. The marathon has a considerable economic and tourism impact on Valencia, generating tens of millions of euros in tourism spending and supporting hundreds of jobs, becoming the second-largest annual economic event in the city.

The start-up Grand Slam Track, founded by Michael Johnson, is facing financial difficulties and has proposed paying vendors only 50% of the owed amounts. This follows reports that the league owes over $10 million to vendors and athletes. World Athletics has rejected this proposal, demanding the league first settle debts with athletes. The league's inaugural tour faced challenges, including cancellation of a leg due to poor economics and failure to secure broadcast income and sponsorships.

UK Athletics CEO Jack Buckner discusses the challenges facing track and field, including the failure of Grand Slam Track due to financial issues and overambitious plans. Buckner also criticizes the Enhanced Games, a competition promoting performance-enhancing substances, and emphasizes the importance of sensible innovation and athlete welfare, advocating for a focus on authentic rivalries and robust core products.

RUSADA reported 47 new whereabouts violations by Russian athletes in October 2025, bringing the total to 286 this year. This surpasses 2024 and 2023 figures. Also, there are 12 potential doping violations. Veronika Loginova, RUSADA Director General, addresses ongoing issues and agency's status restoration.

World Athletics is launching the Ultimate Championship in Budapest from September 11-13, 2026, with a $10 million prize pool, aiming to increase athletics visibility and athlete financial stability. This event, designed for seasons without major championships, will feature direct finals and semi-finals for track events. The Wanda Diamond League has also increased its prize money to $9.24 million, with a total of $18 million including fees and services, and World Athletics has doubled its prize money to $50 million for 2024-2028.