European Running Championships 2025 in Leuven & Brussels

On Saturday April 12 and Sunday April 13, 2025, the first-ever European Running Championships took place in Brussels and Leuven. A unique event where elite athletes and recreational runners competed together over 10 km, half marathon, and marathon distances.

Highlights & Participation

• Over 28,000 runners from more than 80 countries participated.

• More than 300 elite athletes, alongside thousands of amateurs.

• Strong medals yield for Belgium, with individual and team medals in multiple events (10 km, half marathon, marathon).

• Approximately 160,000 spectators along the routes (about 60,000 on Saturday, 100,000 on Sunday).

Courses & Atmosphere

• The marathon began in Brussels (Royal Palace) and ended in Leuven. The half marathon and 10K both started and finished in Leuven.

• Leuven became a celebration city: fan zones, local events, residents encouraged to support and organize community activities.

• Major mobility works: street closures, traffic measures, setup of the route infrastructure, logistical coordination.

Sustainability & Legacy

• The event placed strong emphasis on sustainability: waste reduction, eco-friendly transport, use of reusable materials, minimal printed materials, encouraging public transport, walking, cycling.

• Because of its success, Leuven will host an annual city marathon/festival starting in April 2026, built on the format and spirit of EK Running 2025.

Practical Info & Mood

• Recreational runners got to share the stage with athletes: a unique chance to experience a championship atmosphere firsthand.

• Festive mood: large supportive crowds, cheering along streets, fan zones and side events added to the experience.

• Clear communication, infrastructure setup, accessibility & safety were all key components of the weekend.

AB Sound’s Technical Role (suggested content)

For large-live running events like this, technical support is essential. AB Sound’s contributions might include:

• Strong audio installations at start & finish lines, along the course and in fan zones to ensure clear announcements, music, and ambiance.

• Lighting and visual signage (LED screens, speaker platforms, wayfinding), especially for dawn starts and dusk finishes.

• Supporting infrastructure: power supply, temporary structures, communication systems, coordination with city services, to ensure safety and high quality experience for athletes and public alike.

Reflection & What’s Next

EK Running 2025 was more than a race—it was a gathering, a celebration, and a showcase of how sport, city identity, and public participation can interlock. Top results, strong turnout, festive atmosphere, and urban engagement made it an event to remember.

For AB Sound, it was again an opportunity to bring technical excellence, scale and emotion together—to support the event’s ambition and amplify its impact.

And with the legacy of EK Running (the launching of the annual Leuven Marathon, lasting visibility, inspired communities), we look forward to future events where sport, city and people run toward shared energy and inspiration.