Kia America Returns as Official Automotive Partner of the 2025 Los Angeles Marathon

March 6, 2025

The all new Kia EV9 to Pace 25,000 Runners from Dodger Stadium to Avenue of the Stars on March 16

LOS ANGELES (March 6, 2025) /ENDURANCE SPORTSWIRE/  – The Los Angeles Marathon presented by ASICS announced today that Kia will return as the Official Automotive Partner for the 40th edition of the race on March 16, continuing its support for one of the country’s largest marathons. As the marathon celebrates its 40th edition on March 16, Kia will continue to highlight its commitment to sustainable mobility through the EV9 SUV, which will serve as the official pace car.

“The Los Angeles Marathon isn’t just a race—it’s a celebration of movement, determination, and community, drawing 25,000 passionate runners to the streets of L.A.,” said Steven Center, chief operating officer and executive vice president of Kia America. “Kia is proud to be part of this journey, supporting runners at every mile and connecting with the running community through the marathon’s dynamic programs. Just like training for a marathon, our commitment to innovation and sustainability is about endurance, progress, and pushing forward toward a better future—because at Kia, movement is what inspires us to go farther.”

On Sunday, March 16, more than 25,000 runners will take on the iconic 26.2-mile Stadium-to-the-Stars course, starting at Dodger Stadium and finishing near Avenue of the Stars in Century City. The partnership aligns with Kia’s broader strategy of leveraging premier sporting events to engage consumers and reinforce its leadership in the electric vehicle market.

Kia continues to accelerate its presence in the global EV market, aiming to expand its lineup from nine to 11 electrified models by 2026. The Kia EV9 has already earned industry accolades, including North American Utility Vehicle of the Year™ from the North American Car of the Year (NACTOY) jury and Best EV in the 2024 MotorWeek Drivers’ Choice Awards.

“Kia’s partnership with the Los Angeles Marathon underscores a shared commitment to excellence, innovation, and meaningful consumer engagement,” said Karen O’Connell, head of sponsorship for the marathon. “As we celebrate the 40th anniversary of this premier event, Kia’s strategic alignment with our mission will enhance the race experience while providing valuable touchpoints for a highly engaged audience. We look forward to collaborating on impactful initiatives that resonate with both runners and the broader community.”

The marathon weekend kicks off with the Los Angeles Marathon Lifestyle Expo at Dodger Stadium, running Friday, March 14, and Saturday, March 15. The free, public expo features interactive exhibits, live entertainment, the official ASICS Merchandise Store, and bib pickup for all registered runners.

On Saturday, March 15, the Big 5 Sporting Goods LA 5K begins at 8 a.m., welcoming runners of all ages and abilities. The race starts and finishes at Dodger Stadium, winding through Elysian Park. Future marathoners, ages 3-8, can participate in the LA Kids Run presented by Circle K, where all young runners receive a race shirt, finisher’s medal, and post-race refreshments.

The 40th Los Angeles Marathon officially begins Sunday, March 16, with the professional wheelchair start at 6:30 a.m., followed by the elite and mass participation start at 7:00 a.m. The men’s course record stands at 2:06:35, set by Ethiopia’s Markos Geneti in 2011, while the women’s record is 2:25:03, set by Kenya’s Delvine Meringor in 2022.

For more information on the 2025 Los Angeles Marathon presented by ASICS, visit LAMarathon.com and follow @LAMarathon on social media.

About Kia America

Headquartered in Irvine, California, Kia America continues to top automotive quality surveys. Kia is recognized as one of the TIME World’s Most Sustainable Companies of 2024. Kia serves as the “Official Automotive Partner” of the NBA and WNBA and offers a range of gasoline, hybrid, plug-in hybrid and electric vehicles sold through a network of nearly 800 dealers in the U.S., including several cars and SUVs proudly assembled in America*.

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* Certain EV9 all-electric three-row SUV, Sportage (excludes HEV and PHEV models), Sorento (excludes HEV and PHEV models), and Telluride are assembled in the United States from U.S. and globally sourced parts.

About The McCourt Foundation / Los Angeles Marathon

The McCourt Foundation (TMF) is dedicated to empowering communities to build a healthier world through its commitment to research, education, and impactful events. Established in 1992 as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, TMF has offices in Boston and Los Angeles. The foundation’s mission is centered on curing neurological diseases and fostering community initiatives that promote overall health and wellness. TMF actively contributes to neurology research, hosts educational forums, and leverages its signature events to raise funds and awareness. These events include the Los Angeles Marathon presented by ASICS, the Rose Bowl Half Marathon & 5K, the Santa Monica Classic, and the Boston Waterfront 5K. Through these platforms, TMF has donated more than $6.7 million to neurology research and has generated over $72 million for more than 105 nonprofit charity partners throughout the 40-year history of the Los Angeles Marathon. For more information about the Los Angeles Marathon presented by ASICS and The McCourt Foundation’s other community-building events, visit www.mccourtfoundation.org.