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.

The Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) cleared Chinese long jumper Wang Jianan of a doping violation. Wang tested positive for Terbutaline, an asthma medication, in an out-of-competition test in November 2024. The AIU determined that the positive test resulted from passive inhalation of the drug during a family member's nebulization treatment at a hospital. The China Anti-Doping Agency provided evidence, including CCTV footage and outpatient records, supporting Wang's explanation. An independent expert confirmed the possibility of passive transfer of the substance. Wang competed in the Paris Olympics.

World Athletics announced the finalists for its 2025 Photo of the Year competition. A panel, including Sally Pearson and Christian Taylor, selected three images from 141 submissions representing photographers from 41 countries. The winner will be revealed as part of the World Athletics Awards 2025.

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.