From next year, the series will be known as the Abbott World Marathon Majors.

Abbott is a global healthcare company devoted to "improving life through the development of products and technologies that span the breadth of healthcare".

It is active in more than 150 countries and employs around 69,000 people.

The company is aiming to use the new partnership to bring to life its core mission of helping people "unlock all that life has to offer through the power of health", via a new brand line "Life. To the Fullest."

"Abbott has always been about delivering the enabling power of health so that people - in all places, aspects and stages of life - can achieve more and live not just longer but better," said Paul Magill, senior vice-president and chief marketing officer for Abbott.

"Whether you're stepping out to walk or run your first mile or training to complete a marathon, good health is the starting point for accomplishing your best.

"This partnership is an important building block for us as we build our corporate identity around the world."

The New York Marathon is one of six that make up the World Marathon Majors series ©AFP/Getty Images



The World Marathon Majors is made up of six events: Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago and New York.

Points are awarded to athletes who finish in the top five of the men's and women's races, with $500,000 (£311,000/€396,000) awarded to the series winners at the end of a two year cycle.

Abbott will organise pre-race expos at all six marathons, as well as set up on-course "cheer zones".

Carey Pinkowski, Bank of America Chicago Marathon executive race director, said: "As a company that helps people around the globe achieve their goals through better health, Abbott is a natural fit as the first ever title sponsor of the World Marathon Majors."