The Tata Mumbai Marathon 2025 kicked off with its signature mix of elite athleticism, raw determination, and the sheer joy of running. One of the biggest road races in Asia, it continues to attract world-class runners alongside thousands of amateurs who lace up for the challenge. This year, Eritrea’s Berhane Tesfay stole the show in the elite men's category, clocking in at 2:11:44, while India’s Anish Thapa led the national charts with a time of 2:17:23. But beyond the podium finishes, the real magic of the Mumbai Marathon lies in its stories—whether it's first-time runners chasing personal bests or seasoned athletes proving that age is just a number.

Among those celebrating the spirit of the race this year was none other than Sir Mo Farah. The British long-distance legend, who officially retired from competitive running in 2023, was in Mumbai as the International Event Ambassador. “The energy here is incredible,” he shared. “There’s something special about the way people come together for this race—whether they’re pros or just running for the love of it.”

Farah’s presence was a reminder of what makes running such a universal sport. Over his career, he’s won four Olympic golds, six world titles, and cemented his status as one of the greatest distance runners in history. But since retiring, he’s traded race bibs for new ventures—advocating for social causes, sharing insights on his podcast, and embracing life beyond the track. Curious about what’s next for the legendary runner? We sat down with Mo ahead of the marathon to talk about his love for running, life after competition, and what keeps him moving forward.

Is this your first time in India? What are your thoughts going into the marathon?

It’s my first time in Mumbai. I’m really excited to be an ambassador for the Tata Mumbai Marathon’s 20th edition. This city has seen so much change over the years, and it’s a great way to celebrate that by being part of such an amazing event.

The event has grown a lot over the years; it's something of a New Year's special for Mumbai's running community. What, according to you, is the secret ingredient for a successful city marathon?

I think it all comes down to hard work and determination. That’s what makes events like this a success. It’s incredible to see so many people running—men, women, and even those running for charity or in memory of loved ones. That’s what makes it special.

2024 was a big year for you in terms of activism. Looking back, how does it feel to have been part of so many initiatives?

eah, 2024 was a whirlwind. I retired at the end of 2023, so I finally had time to focus on giving back. I’ve been an ambassador for child safety, traveling to Somalia to support young kids and women who are less fortunate. I’m also working with the Sports Youth Trust, pushing for policy changes to get kids at least 60 minutes of PE every day. It’s been a busy year, but it’s all about making a difference.

Since stepping away from competition, how has your perspective on your career changed?

It’s a different feeling now. As an athlete, you stay in your lane, focus on your career, and don’t always speak about things outside of sport. But now, I feel like I can talk about what matters—whether that’s inspiring young athletes or pushing for change. I was lucky to have people support me early in my career, from teachers taking me to my first running club to coaches believing in me. Now, I want to do the same for others.

You travel quite a lot. How do you maintain your fitness and running routine while on the go?

When I was competing, running always came first. No matter where I was in the world, if I had a 10-mile run scheduled in the morning, I would get it done. Then I’d do another run in the evening. But now that I’m retired, I run to clear my head rather than to train. I still love to stay active, run with my kids, and enjoy time with my family.

Now that you’re in India, I have to ask—how has your approach to food changed since retirement? Do you have a favourite treat that you indulge in from time to time?

When I was training, it was all about fuelling my body right—carbs, protein, hydration, and recovery. It was very scientific. Now, I have the freedom to eat what I want. I’ve always had a massive sweet tooth, though. My favourite dessert? Sticky toffee pudding—hands down! Once the event’s done, I’m heading out to explore some local food.

Recently, you began a podcast show on YouTube called Running With Mo where you've brought in friends such as Jimmy Carr—I watched the Arsène Wenger episode—it was brilliant. What’s the idea behind the series?

Run with Mo is all about connecting with friends from sports and beyond. I meet them, go for a run, and have a real conversation. With Wenger, it was about his legendary Arsenal days—how he spotted talent, what he saw in players like Vieira, Bergkamp, and Thierry Henry. Then there was Jimmy Carr—I’ve known him for years, and I wanted to understand what goes into making people laugh.

Have you always wanted to be in this space—interviewing people? Do you have a dream guest?

I just love connecting with people. No matter where we come from, we’re all human at the end of the day. But sometimes, when you achieve big things, people see you as untouchable. I want to break that barrier and show that we’re all the same. That’s what Run with Mo is really about—human stories, shared experiences.

I’d love to have Priyanka Chopra from Bollywood! Denzel Washington would be another one. And of course, Thierry Henry. Basically, all the Arsenal legends!

Mumbai is a fast-paced, sometimes unhealthy city, and marathons really help bring people together. How do you think running impacts a city's relationship to health?

Running changes lives. It helps people dealing with mental health struggles, overcoming illnesses, or just looking for a way to feel free. It puts you in a different state of mind—you start making better decisions, feeling good about yourself. And that’s the key. If you don’t feel good, it’s hard to stay motivated. That’s why it’s amazing to see so many people running, and the numbers just keep growing every year.

Looking ahead, what’s in store for you in 2025?

Hopefully, I’ll complete the first series of Run with Mo and start planning the next one. Other than that, I’m spending more time with my family and continuing my work with the Sports Youth Trust. One of my biggest goals is to push for more physical activity in schools. If we don’t act now, it’ll be too late. Kids don’t always have the choice to be active—we need to make sure they do.