Running News Daily

Kenya’s Philimon Kiptoo Kipchumba produced a remarkable performance at the 48th Istanbul Marathon, winning the men’s race in a dramatic finish and smashing the course record in the process.

Kipchumba crossed the line in 2:08:44.9, holding off Ethiopia’s Sufaro Woliyi Kebeto, who finished just 10 seconds behind in 2:08:54.7. Kenya’s Vincent Kipyegon Ronoh completed the podium in 2:08:57.7, with all three athletes breaking 2:09 in a fiercely contested race.

The victory also saw Kipchumba erase the previous Istanbul Marathon course record of 2:09:44, set by fellow Kenyan Daniel Kibet in 2019. His performance improved the long-standing mark by almost one minute and added another significant achievement to Kenya’s rich marathon tradition.

The race remained closely fought deep into the closing stages, with Kipchumba, Kebeto and Ronoh separated by only seconds. Kipchumba ultimately produced the decisive finish to claim the title on one of the most distinctive marathon courses in the world.

The Istanbul Marathon, famous for connecting two continents, takes runners from the Asian side of the city across the Bosphorus and into European Istanbul before the finish near the historic Sultanahmet area. The unique setting once again provided the backdrop for a memorable day of elite marathon racing.

The women’s race delivered an equally dominant performance from Ethiopia, with Kasanesh Ayenew Baze leading an Ethiopian sweep of the podium.

Ayenew Baze won in 2:24:40.6, finishing seven seconds ahead of compatriot Azmera Abreha Gdey, who recorded 2:24:47.2. Diribe Hirko Alemu completed the podium in 2:25:00.6, giving Ethiopia all three medals.

Hirko’s performance was particularly notable as she was making her marathon debut, immediately announcing herself with a 2:25 clocking and a place among the leading finishers.

The 48th edition of the Istanbul Marathon thus belonged to two of East Africa’s great distance-running nations. Kenya took the men’s title and course record through Kipchumba, while Ethiopia delivered a commanding clean sweep in the women’s race.

In the end, Istanbul witnessed a day of fast racing, narrow margins and historic performances, with Kipchumba’s record-breaking victory providing the defining moment of the 2026 edition.

Ethiopia enjoyed a memorable double triumph at the 2026 Hangzhou Marathon, with Kemal Husen and Kuftu Tahir Dadiso claiming the men’s and women’s titles respectively after battling through challenging weather conditions on Sunday, November 1.

The 2026 edition of the Hangzhou Marathon proved to be as much a test of resilience as it was of speed. As the race progressed, rising temperatures, humidity and an increasingly difficult thermal sensation placed enormous demands on the elite field, particularly during the closing stages.

In the men’s race, Kemal Husen emerged as the strongest competitor, producing a determined performance to secure victory in 2:11:16.

The race gradually developed into a battle of attrition as the difficult conditions began to take their toll. Rather than allowing the heat and humidity to dictate the outcome, Husen remained composed through the decisive stages and found enough strength to establish himself at the front.

His 2:11:16 was enough to put the Ethiopian on top of the podium and crown him the 2026 Hangzhou Marathon men’s champion.

Morocco’s Mustapha Houdadi followed closely behind, delivering an impressive performance to claim the silver medal in 2:12:04. Houdadi showed considerable strength in the latter stages, holding his position despite the increasingly demanding conditions.

Kenya’s Nicholas Kirwa completed the men’s podium after another hard-fought performance. Kirwa battled through the final kilometres to finish third in 2:12:50, ensuring Kenya also had a representative among the leading finishers.

The women’s race produced another Ethiopian celebration.

Kuftu Tahir Dadiso captured the women’s title in commanding fashion, crossing the finish line in 2:26:03 after navigating the increasingly difficult conditions with patience and determination.

Dadiso’s victory was built on strong race management. As the temperature and thermal stress intensified, the leading group began to feel the effects of the weather, transforming the final kilometres into a demanding test of endurance.

While others struggled to maintain their rhythm, Dadiso remained composed and continued to press forward. Her ability to manage the conditions allowed her to pull clear and secure a convincing victory.

The result also gave Ethiopia a dominant one-two finish in the women’s race.

Fellow Ethiopian Amid Fozya Jemal produced a gritty performance to take second place in 2:29:04. Jemal fought through the sweltering conditions to maintain her position and ensure that the top two places belonged to Ethiopia.

Kenya’s Mercy Kwambai completed the women’s podium, fighting relentlessly through the closing kilometres to secure third place in 2:30:23.

Kwambai’s bronze medal was a testament to her resilience on a day when the weather presented an additional opponent. With the heat and humidity placing increasing strain on the athletes, she dug deep to maintain her position and finish among the leading international contenders.

Together, the two races produced an intriguing picture of endurance under pressure. Ethiopia swept both individual titles and added a women’s silver medal, while Kenya collected bronze medals in both the men’s and women’s races.

The results also underlined the importance of adapting to conditions in a marathon. On a day when the weather made fast running increasingly difficult, victory belonged not simply to the athletes with the greatest speed, but to those who could conserve their energy, remain mentally composed and produce their strongest running when the race became hardest.

For Kemal Husen and Kuftu Tahir Dadiso, that balance proved decisive.

Husen conquered the men’s race in 2:11:16, while Dadiso dominated the women’s contest in 2:26:03.

Two champions. Two demanding races. One unforgettable Ethiopian double in Hangzhou.

The heat tested them. The marathon challenged them. But Ethiopia conquered Hangzhou.

The Türkiye Is Bankasi Istanbul Marathon is building toward its golden anniversary with a field worthy of the occasion. With two years remaining until its 50th edition, organizers have assembled the fastest elite lineup in the event’s history for Sunday’s 48th running.

Four men bring personal bests under 2:06, while three women have broken 2:20—a first for a race that has never previously featured a woman with a sub-2:20 personal best.

The world’s only intercontinental marathon takes runners from Asia to Europe. Türkiye’s largest marathon is also a World Athletics Gold Label Road Race, combining elite competition with one of the sport’s most distinctive settings.

“An exciting race awaits us in both the men’s and women’s categories. Including races at shorter distances the Türkiye Is Bankasi Istanbul Marathon will bring together over 45,000 participants from 143 different countries. We are proud to host such a celebration of sports,” said Race Director Bilge Donuk.

Women’s Race: Korir Leads a Record-Setting Field

Kenya’s Judith Korir, the 2022 World Championships marathon silver medalist, leads the women’s field with a personal best of 2:18:20. Ethiopia’s Azmera Abreha follows at 2:18:33, with compatriot Kasanesh Baze bringing a best of 2:19:39.

Eritrea’s Dolshi Tesfu adds further depth with her 2:20:40 best. Turkish record holder Sultan Haydar, who ran 2:21:27 in Valencia three years ago, returns to Istanbul, where she finished third in 2013.

The strength of the field leaves defending champion Bizuager Aderra only ninth on the list by personal best. The Ethiopian won last year in 2:26:19, which remains her fastest marathon.

But Aderra is focused on defending her title.

“I will try to win again. I am ready and I have trained well in Addis Ababa,” said the 30-year-old. “The final section of the course is not easy. It is probably an advantage to know it.”

For Korir, Sunday offers an opportunity to reestablish herself after an extended injury setback. She enjoyed outstanding seasons in 2022 and 2023, winning the 2022 Paris Marathon, earning world silver in Eugene and finishing fourth in London in 2:18:43. She returned to London the following year and placed sixth.

“I got a hamstring injury which hampered me for around two years,” Korir said.

She finished eighth at this spring’s Milano Marathon in 2:26:48, a result that fell short of her expectations and prompted a change.

“After the Milano race I changed my set-up and moved my training base from Iten to Kaptagat, where I have strong training partners,” said Korir, who usually returns to Iten on weekends to see her husband and 13-year-old son.

“I am in good form now and look forward to Sunday.”

Men’s Race: Four Sub-2:06 Runners Target Istanbul Glory

Ethiopia’s Sufaro Woliyi heads the men’s field with a personal best of 2:04:35, set in Seoul this spring. Compatriot Amdework Walelegn follows at 2:04:50, ahead of Kenya’s Philimon Kipchumba at 2:05:35 and Ethiopia’s Dejene Debela at 2:05:46.

Istanbul also welcomed four sub-2:06 men two years ago, but this year’s leading quartet brings faster personal bests.

Debela combines speed with valuable course experience. The Ethiopian won in Istanbul two years ago and finished runner-up last year. His personal best dates to the 2019 Chicago Marathon.

“Compared to last year I am in much better form,” said Debela, who has not raced this year while recovering from injury. “The problem was that I got a muscle injury and it took long to recover.”

He believes the course record of 2:09:44, set in 2019, could be within reach.

“I am in the shape to run sub 2:10 in Istanbul. But a major factor is the weather. If conditions are fine we should break it,” Debela said.

Woliyi also knows what it takes to contend on Istanbul’s challenging course. He finished third last year, just 14 seconds behind Kenya’s Rhonzas Kilimo.

“My training went very well, I am in the best shape of my life. I hope that this time I will be the number one,” said Woliyi, who lives and trains in Asala, Ethiopia.

His breakthrough performance in Seoul makes him the fastest entrant, but his rivals’ experience and the demands of the course promise a competitive race.

Türkiye’s Hüseyin Can will also be one to watch. He helped push the pace last year and was rewarded with fifth place and a then-personal best of 2:10:58. He returns having improved to 2:10:03.

How to Watch

The marathon starts at 9:00 a.m. local time Sunday, with a livestream available through the official race website⁠.

Elite Runners with Personal Bests

MEN:

Sufaro Woliyi ETH 2:04:35

Amdework Walelegn ETH 2:04:50

Philimon Kipchumba KEN 2:05:35

Dejene Debela ETH 2:05:46

Silas Too         KEN 2:06:32

Douglass Kiprugut  KEN 2:06:40

Francis Langat KEN 2:07:29

Benard Kipkorir KEN 2:08:12

Vincent Ronoh KEN 2:08:32

Shadrack Kenduiywo KEN 2:09:56

Hüseyin Can TUR 2:10:03

Samuel Lomoi         KEN 2:10:21

Paul Tiongik KEN 2:10:25

Yavuz Agrali  TUR 2:10:41

Gemechu Yadesa  ETH 2:10:54

WOMEN:

Judith Korir KEN 2:18:20

Azmera Abreha ETH 2:18:33

Kasanesh Baze ETH 2:19:39

Dolshi Tesfu ERI 2:20:40

Sultan Haydar         TUR 2:21:27

Veronicah Maina KEN 2:24:14

Alemtsehay Asefa ETH 2:24:42

Flomena Chepkiach KEN 2:25:41

Bizuager Aderra ETH 2:26:19

Everlyn Kemboi KEN Debut

Diribe Alemu ETH Debut

Meaza Asefa ETH Debut

Conner Mantz heads into Sunday’s TCS New York City Marathon with a clear ambition: to be right there with the leading pack when the race reaches its decisive stages.

The 29-year-old American is not simply hoping to survive the demanding New York course. He intends to remain among the strongest contenders deep into the race, and he already has a few names in mind when it comes to the athletes he expects to be alongside him.

One of them is Benson Kipruto, the reigning New York City Marathon champion and one of the most consistent marathoners in the world.

“Benson will be there,” Mantz said. “I feel like he’s always there.”

It is difficult to argue with that assessment. Kipruto has repeatedly demonstrated his ability to remain competitive deep into major marathons, making him one of the runners Mantz expects to see when the race begins to take shape.

Mantz also singled out Andreas Almgren, who will make his highly anticipated marathon debut in New York.

“It’s hard to bet against Almgren,” Mantz said, highlighting the Swedish star’s extraordinary range and strength as he steps up to the 42.195-kilometre distance for the first time.

Another athlete on Mantz’s radar is Ethiopia’s Deresa Geleta, who has already established himself as a formidable force over the marathon distance.

“I imagine Deresa will be there,” Mantz added.

But the most intriguing matchup could involve another American: Zouhair Talbi.

Talbi arrives in New York with impressive credentials of his own. He was the top American at the Boston Marathon and has established himself as one of the fastest marathoners in U.S. history. Mantz, however, is hoping that when the race reaches its closing stages, he will once again have the edge over his compatriot.

“Hopefully I’m a little ahead of him at that point,” Mantz said.

There is already some history between the two Americans. In their previous race together, Mantz and Talbi remained locked together until roughly 600 metres from the finish, when the battle was finally decided. New York could provide another chapter in that developing rivalry, only this time with a major marathon title at stake.

Mantz’s credentials explain why he believes he belongs in the lead-pack conversation. He has already finished inside the top eight at an Olympic Games, won two national titles and recorded five top-eight finishes at major marathons. He has also represented the United States at the World Road Running Championships, giving him valuable experience on some of the biggest stages in the sport.

His marathon progression has been particularly impressive. On October 12, 2025, Mantz clocked 2:04:43 to set the American record and national record, confirming his status as one of the fastest marathoners the United States has ever produced. That breakthrough transformed him from a promising distance runner into a genuine contender on the global marathon stage.

His versatility extends well beyond the marathon, too. Mantz is ranked among the world’s leading athletes in the 10,000 metres and road running, while also sitting inside the global top 60 for the marathon. His combination of speed, endurance and championship experience makes him a dangerous competitor on a course as unpredictable and demanding as New York.

And that is precisely why Mantz is not looking merely to be part of the field on Sunday. He wants to be part of the race.

If his prediction proves correct, Mantz could find himself surrounded by Kipruto, Almgren, Geleta and Talbi as the marathon enters its most critical miles. From there, patience, positioning and the ability to handle the brutal closing stages of New York could determine who remains standing in the fight for victory.

For Mantz, the message is clear: he does not intend to wait for the race to come to him. He plans to be there when the battle begins. 

Only two men have ever won five of the Abbott World Marathon Majors: Eliud Kipchoge and Wilson Kipsang.

On Sunday, Benson Kipruto will have the opportunity to make that exclusive list even more Kenyan.

The 35-year-old already has four Major victories to his name, with triumphs in Tokyo, Boston, Chicago and New York. His latest came in spectacular fashion last November, when he edged compatriot Alexander Mutiso by just three hundredths of a second in one of the closest finishes in New York City Marathon history. Both were officially timed at 2:08:09, but Kipruto was declared the winner after an extraordinary sprint to the line.

That victory was more than another trophy. It demonstrated Kipruto’s ability to remain composed when the pressure is at its highest, then produce the decisive move when victory is measured in inches. Now, he returns to the streets of New York carrying a different kind of pressure: the chance to join one of the most exclusive clubs in marathon running.

Defending a New York City Marathon title is never a simple task. The course demands patience, strength and tactical intelligence, while the depth of the elite field leaves almost no room for a bad moment. Kipruto will have to overcome a lineup packed with proven championship performers and several athletes capable of producing a breakthrough performance.

Among his biggest challengers is Ethiopia’s Deresa Geleta, who owns a 2:02:38 personal best, while Kenya’s CyBrian Kotut enters with a 2:03:22. American Conner Mantz brings a 2:04:43 national record to the start line, while former champions Geoffrey Kamworor and Abdi Nageeye add further experience to an already formidable field.

And then there is Andreas Almgren.

The Swedish star will make his marathon debut in New York after establishing himself as one of Europe’s most versatile distance runners. Almgren arrives as the European record-holder over 5,000m and half marathon and recently won the European 10,000m title in championship-record fashion. Rather than choosing an easier course for his first marathon, he has opted for the demanding streets of New York.

Kipruto, however, has already proved that he knows how to win on the biggest stages. His marathon personal best of 2:02:16 places him among the fastest men in the field, but his greatest weapon may be his racing experience. He has repeatedly shown that he can stay in contention deep into a race and deliver when the decisive moment arrives.

Now the equation is brutally simple.

Four Major victories have already established Kipruto among the elite of his generation. A fifth would move him alongside Kipchoge and Kipsang as only the third man in history to reach that milestone.

New York gave Kipruto one of the most dramatic victories of his career last year. On Sunday, the same streets could provide another defining chapter.

Can Benson Kipruto defend his New York title, conquer another world-class field and become only the third man ever to win five World Marathon Majors? 

At an age when most elite distance runners have long stepped away from the highest level of competition, Kenenisa Bekele continues to challenge the limits of longevity. At 44, the Ethiopian distance-running icon remains willing to line up against a new generation of younger athletes, even as injuries and difficult races have made the latest chapter of his remarkable career increasingly demanding.

Bekele’s recent journey has been a mixture of extraordinary resilience and frustrating setbacks. His 2024 campaign demonstrated both sides of that story. At the London Marathon in April, he produced one of the greatest performances ever recorded by a masters athlete, running 2:04:15 for second place behind Alexander Mutiso Munyao. The performance established a world record for the M40 age category and showed that, even beyond his 40th birthday, Bekele could still operate at a breathtaking level.

A few months later, however, the Olympic marathon in Paris offered a very different challenge. Bekele finished 39th in 2:12:24 after struggling with a hamstring problem during the race. He later explained that he felt the hamstring stretch around 15 kilometres, yet he continued to the finish rather than joining the growing list of athletes who abandoned the brutal Olympic course.

The setbacks continued into 2025, when Bekele recorded a DNF at the TCS New York City Marathon. Then came another obstacle in 2026. His highly anticipated return to the Berlin Marathon was halted after he suffered a left Achilles tendon injury in training only days before the race, forcing him to withdraw.

Rather than allowing another setback to end the conversation, Bekele returned to competition at the Valencia Half Marathon on October 25, 2026. The target was ambitious: breaking the 60-minute barrier for the first time in his career while pursuing the M40 world record of 59:53.

But the clock proved unforgiving. Bekele recorded 14:38 through the opening 5 kilometres before eventually dropping out of the race.

For an athlete whose career has been defined by extraordinary victories, records and comebacks, another DNF may look like a painful statistic. But judging Bekele solely by his most recent results would overlook the extraordinary body of work that has made him one of the greatest distance runners in history.

In December 2023, at 41, he ran 2:04:19 to finish fourth at the Valencia Marathon, setting a world masters record at the time. Four months later, he went even faster in London, producing the remarkable 2:04:15 that remains his M40 world record.

And his legacy extends far beyond the marathon. Bekele is a three-time Olympic champion, winning the 10,000 metres at Athens 2004 before completing the 5,000m and 10,000m double at Beijing 2008. He also collected five World Championship gold medals and 11 World Cross Country Championship titles.

His 2:01:41 victory at the 2019 Berlin Marathon remains one of the most extraordinary marathon performances ever produced. Although it is no longer the second-fastest marathon in history—as faster performances have since been recorded—it remains among the all-time great marks and currently sits seventh on the World Athletics all-time list.

That is what makes Bekele’s current journey so compelling. The 44-year-old is no longer competing simply to add another ordinary result to his résumé. Every appearance represents another test of how far experience, determination and an extraordinary athletic foundation can carry an athlete against the relentless passage of time.

Valencia did not deliver the sub-60 performance he was chasing. The Achilles injury disrupted his Berlin comeback. New York ended without a finish. Yet none of those moments can erase what Bekele has already achieved—or the remarkable fact that he continues to stand on start lines against athletes who are sometimes more than a decade younger.

Perhaps that is the most enduring part of Kenenisa Bekele’s story. Records eventually fall, races eventually become difficult, and the body eventually demands a price. But the competitive spirit that carried him from Olympic glory to world records has never disappeared.

At 44, Bekele may no longer be chasing the same version of himself who dominated the track and conquered Berlin. Instead, he is fighting a different battle—the battle to discover just how much of that greatness still remains.

And as long as Kenenisa Bekele keeps answering the starting gun, the running world will keep watching.

The professional field for the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon has undergone several changes after New York Road Runners announced that a number of athletes have withdrawn from Sunday's highly anticipated race.

Among the notable names scratched from the lineup are Italian marathon star Iliass Aouani, Ethiopian distance runner Gotytom Gebreslase, American marathoner Casey Clinger and Olympic medalist Paul Chelimo, marking significant changes to the field ahead of one of the world's most prestigious marathons.

Aouani was among the most notable names on the withdrawal list. The Italian claimed bronze in the men's marathon at the 2025 World Athletics Championships and has also established himself as one of Europe's leading marathon runners, having won the European marathon title. His absence removes an experienced championship performer from the men's elite field.

Gebreslase is another significant withdrawal. The Ethiopian is a two-time World Championships marathon medallist and has consistently demonstrated her ability to compete at the highest level of international distance running. Her withdrawal represents a notable change to the women's professional lineup.

The American contingent has also been affected, with Clinger and Chelimo among those no longer scheduled to compete. Clinger, who owns a marathon personal best of 2:08:43, has emerged as a competitive presence in American distance running. His withdrawal removes another accomplished runner from the men's field.

Chelimo, meanwhile, brings an impressive track record to the list of withdrawals. The two-time Olympic medallist in the 5,000 metres has represented the United States on the biggest international stages, earning Olympic silver at Rio 2016 and bronze at Tokyo 2020. Although best known for his achievements on the track, his name had added further interest to the marathon's professional lineup.

The other athletes listed as scratched are Huseydin Mohamed Esa of Ethiopia, Erika Kemp, JP Trojan and Jared Ward of the United States. Their withdrawals further reshape the field as the final preparations continue for Sunday's race.

The New York City Marathon remains one of the most celebrated events on the global road-running calendar, attracting elite international competitors and tens of thousands of runners across its iconic five-borough course. With the race approaching, attention will now turn to the remaining professional athletes preparing to take on the demanding 26.2-mile challenge through New York City.

The latest withdrawals underline how quickly an elite marathon field can change in the days leading up to race day, leaving fans eager to see which athletes will ultimately line up for the 2026 edition.

The true spirit of marathon running was beautifully displayed at the 2026 Mainova Frankfurt Marathon, where the celebration extended far beyond the elite athletes who crossed the finish line first. In a heartwarming tradition, the race's men's and women's champions waited inside the historic Festhalle Frankfurt to welcome the final finisher, reminding the world that every marathon journey deserves recognition.

As the final runner entered the magnificent venue, the atmosphere transformed into an unforgettable celebration. Confetti filled the air as music, dazzling lights and a red-carpet welcome created a moment usually associated with the sport's biggest stars. Standing alongside the champions, the last finisher received a hero's reception, demonstrating that the achievement of completing a marathon deserves to be celebrated regardless of finishing position.

Ethiopia's Jirata Lelisa Dinki, who won the men's race in an impressive 2:05:26, and compatriot Zeineba Yimer Worku, the women's champion in 2:19:45, were among those celebrating the final runner's remarkable achievement.

Their presence sent a powerful message about the values that make marathon running special. While elite athletes push the limits of human performance in pursuit of victory and fast times, thousands of other runners take on the same 42.195-kilometre challenge for deeply personal reasons. For some, the goal is to achieve a personal best; for others, it is to overcome adversity, fulfil a lifelong ambition or simply reach the finish line.

The final finisher's journey may have taken longer than that of the champions, but the determination required to keep moving forward deserves equal admiration. Every kilometre represents effort, sacrifice and perseverance, and crossing the finish line marks the successful completion of a challenge that demands both physical endurance and mental strength.

Frankfurt's special welcome captured an essential truth about distance running: a marathon is not only a race against the clock but also a personal battle against exhaustion, doubt and the temptation to give up. By waiting for the final runner, the champions helped ensure that the day's celebrations included someone whose achievement might otherwise have gone unnoticed.

In a sport often defined by world records, course records and podium finishes, this touching tradition offers a refreshing reminder that the value of a marathon cannot be measured by time alone. The fastest runners may make headlines for their performances, but every finisher has a story worth telling.

At the Mainova Frankfurt Marathon, the champions had already conquered their own challenges. Yet their decision to welcome the last runner created another memorable moment, showing that greatness in sport is measured not only by what athletes accomplish but also by the respect they show others.

Because when the final runner receives the same warmth, applause and celebration as the champions, the message is unmistakable: every runner matters, every finish line represents an achievement, and nobody should be left behind when it is time to celebrate.

Kenya celebrated a memorable double victory at the 2026 Wizz Air Venice Marathon on Sunday, October 25, as Peter Kwemoi Ndorobo stormed to the men's title in a course-record 2:07:31 while Jackline Jerono claimed the women's crown in 2:26:16, the third-fastest women's marathon time in the race's history.

The 40th anniversary edition of the celebrated Italian road race delivered a spectacular combination of record-breaking performances, fierce competition and emotional moments, with Kenyan athletes taking centre stage in both elite races.

Ndorobo produced an outstanding performance in the men's race, crossing the finish line in 2:07:31 to establish a new course record. His victory highlighted his strength and composure over the demanding 42.195-kilometre distance, which includes challenging bridges and changes in terrain that test even the most experienced marathon runners.

Ethiopia's Berhanu Tarto Yatede finished a close second in 2:07:47, just 16 seconds behind the winner, after delivering an impressive performance of his own. Kenya's Dickson Simba Nyakundi completed the podium in third place in 2:07:56, making it a particularly strong showing for the East African nation.

The men's race also featured several other impressive performances. Kenya's Collins Kipsang Kemboi finished fourth in 2:08:07, followed by compatriot Evans Kipkorir in fifth in 2:08:41. Ethiopia's Teresa Nyakola Gela placed sixth in 2:08:50, while Kenya's Felix Kimutai finished seventh in 2:09:00 and Wesley Ledama eighth in 2:09:01. Kenya's Elkana Kipkemei Kiprop took ninth in 2:10:14, with Ethiopia's Deribe Robi Melka completing the top 10 in 2:10:55.

In the women's competition, Jerono delivered a superb performance to secure victory in 2:26:16, recording the third-fastest women's marathon time ever achieved at the Venice Marathon. Her performance added another memorable chapter to the event's 40-year history and underlined her strength over the classic distance.

The Kenyan runner faced a determined challenge from Ethiopia's Alemaz Samuel Teshale, who finished just seven seconds behind in 2:26:23. Teshale's performance was particularly notable as she made an impressive marathon debut, immediately establishing herself as a formidable competitor over the distance.

Ethiopia's Worknesh Alemu Mola completed the podium in third place in 2:28:46, ensuring that the leading positions were shared between Kenya and Ethiopia.

Kenya's Chepkemboi Domtyla Lagat finished fourth in 2:33:34, while Ethiopia's Webalem Basazew Ayele took fifth in 2:36:36. Italy's Federica Moroni was the leading Italian finisher in sixth place in 2:49:39, followed by compatriot Giorgia Bonci in seventh in 2:54:38. Lia Visintin finished eighth in 2:57:49, while Hungary's Zsofia Malatinszky completed the top 10 in 3:00:05.

The results underlined the continued strength of Kenyan and Ethiopian distance running, with athletes from the two nations dominating the leading positions in both elite competitions.

As the Wizz Air Venice Marathon marked four decades of racing, Ndorobo's course-record triumph and Jerono's historic performance provided two of the defining moments of the anniversary edition. Their victories ensured that Kenya left Venice celebrating a remarkable double, with both champions delivering performances worthy of the occasion.

Ethiopia’s Jirata Dinki and Zeineba Yimer claimed victory at the 43rd Mainova Frankfurt Marathon, but Germany’s Blanka Dörfel delivered perhaps the day’s biggest breakthrough, finishing second in her marathon debut in 2:20:46.

Despite wet and windy conditions, the 24-year-old became the second-fastest German woman and eighth-fastest European woman in marathon history. Only German record holder Irina Mikitenko has run faster among her compatriots.

Yimer won the women’s race in 2:19:45, while Ethiopia’s Beriha Gebreslasie finished third in 2:22:46.

In the men’s race, Dinki surged away in the closing kilometers to win in 2:05:26, improving his personal best by nearly three minutes. Germany’s Amanal Petros finished second in 2:05:46, becoming the first German man to reach the Frankfurt podium in more than 25 years. Kenya’s Benard Biwott, the 2024 champion, took third in 2:06:23.

A record 19,720 runners from 128 nations entered this year’s event. 

Dörfel Delivers a Remarkable Debut

Yimer, the women’s favorite, led from the start alongside fellow Ethiopian Siranesh Yirga. After 30 kilometers, Yirga could no longer maintain the pace, leaving Yimer alone at the front.

Although she struggled in the closing kilometers, the 28-year-old held on to secure victory with the sixth-fastest women’s performance in Frankfurt history.

“I was hoping I would win. The weather was not on our side. The rain slowed me down, but I am very happy with my performance,” Yimer said.

Behind her, Dörfel was producing an extraordinary first marathon.

After passing halfway in 1:10:29, the German moved clear of a group that included American Betsy Saina and Kenya’s Marion Kibor. Running with a smooth, controlled stride, she steadily reduced the gap to the leaders and moved into second place at 33 kilometers.

For a time, a sub-2:20 finish appeared possible. Even as the effort caught up with her over the final five kilometers, Dörfel held her position and entered Frankfurt’s Festhalle to an enthusiastic reception.

“I ran without a watch as I do in training, going purely by how I feel, not by the time,” she said. “It was always a bit of a mystery to me what time I could achieve. It wasn’t until I was in the Festhalle that I saw the 2:20 and realised just how fast I was.”

Standing water added to the challenge, but the crowd helped carry her through.

“So many people were shouting ‘Blanka, run!’ It was a brilliant day,” she said.

Dinki Wins a Tactical Battle

The men’s race began with hopes of challenging Petros’ German record of 2:04:03. Petros, Samuel Fitwi and Richard Ringer joined a large lead group, but the weather soon pushed record ambitions aside.

The leaders passed 10 kilometers in 29:55 and halfway in 1:03:01, setting up a competitive second half,

With roughly 10 kilometers remaining, Petros and Biwott increased the pace and opened a small gap. Fitwi dropped back with muscle problems, while Ringer tried to bridge the gap before also losing ground.

Dinki, however, was moving forward.

The 24-year-old Ethiopian arrived in Frankfurt with a personal best of 2:08:18 and caught the leaders around 37 kilometers. Petros attacked again, shaking off Biwott, but Dinki responded before making the decisive move of his own with about two kilometers remaining.

“I had not reckoned with him,” Petros said.

Dinki crossed the line in 2:05:26, cutting 2:52 from his previous best and earning the biggest victory of his career in just his third marathon.

“The weather was not ideal, so I started off more cautiously. But I was sure I would run a good race. This is a huge victory for me,” Dinki said.

Petros finished 20 seconds behind, recording the fastest time ever run by a German man at the Frankfurt Marathon.

“I gave it a go, but in that weather it was clear that a record was not going to happen. Then I suppose I attacked a bit too early – I will learn from that,” Petros said. “Of course I would have liked to win, but that is how it goes in the marathon.”

Ringer finished fifth in 2:07:07, with Fitwi seventh in 2:08:57.

Kenyan distance-running veteran Mark Kiptoo delivered an extraordinary performance at the 2026 Frankfurt Marathon in Germany on Sunday, October 25, setting a new men's M50 marathon world record with a remarkable time of 2:15:24.

At 50, Kiptoo continues to defy expectations, demonstrating that age is no barrier to exceptional endurance, speed and determination. His performance highlighted another remarkable chapter in a career defined by longevity and an unwavering commitment to distance running.

The Kenyan improved on the previous M50 marathon world record of 2:19:29, set by South Africa's Titus Mamabolo in 1991, by an extraordinary four minutes and five seconds. The previous mark had stood for 35 years, making Kiptoo's achievement an especially significant milestone in masters marathon running.

His latest record-breaking performance comes just weeks after he reportedly set an M50 half-marathon world record of 1:03:57 in San Sebastián, Spain. The two achievements underline his exceptional form and ability to maintain an extraordinary level of competitiveness at an age when many athletes have long since retired from elite competition.

Frankfurt has played a defining role in Kiptoo's marathon journey. He made his marathon debut at the German race in 2013 at the age of 37, finishing second in 2:06:16. A year later, he returned to claim victory in 2:06:49, establishing himself among the leading marathoners of his era.

In 2018, Kiptoo again made history on the same course, recording 2:07:50 to establish a then-world record in the men's M40 masters marathon category. His return to Frankfurt in 2026 has now delivered another extraordinary chapter, with the Kenyan rewriting the M50 record books at the age of 50.

From competing against the world's leading marathoners in his 30s to producing record-breaking performances in the masters ranks, Kiptoo has demonstrated remarkable longevity, discipline and determination. His journey is a powerful reminder that age does not necessarily signal the end of sporting excellence.

Kiptoo's achievement was one of the standout stories of the Frankfurt Marathon, which also witnessed Ethiopian runners dominate the elite races, with Lelisa Denki and Zeineba Yimer claiming the men's and women's titles, respectively.

In the men's race, Denki produced an impressive performance to take victory in a personal-best time of 2:05:26. Germany's Amanal Petros delighted the home crowd by finishing second in 2:05:46, while Kenya's Benard Biwott secured third place in 2:06:23, ensuring a strong podium finish for the East African nation.

The women's contest was equally compelling, with Ethiopia's Yimer taking the title in 2:19:45. Germany's Blanka Dörfel finished second in 2:20:46, while Ethiopia's Beriha Gebreslasie completed the podium in third place with a time of 2:22:46.

The results underlined Ethiopia's strength in international marathon running, while the performances of Petros, Biwott and Dörfel provided memorable moments for German athletics fans on home soil.

For Kiptoo, however, the spotlight belonged to his remarkable achievement in the men's M50 category. His 2:15:24 performance represented an exceptional demonstration of endurance and competitive ability at an age when many former elite runners have long since stepped away from top-level competition.

Frankfurt has long held a special place in Kiptoo's marathon career. He made his marathon debut at the event in 2013, finishing second in 2:06:16 before returning a year later to claim victory in 2:06:49. He also established a world record in the men's over-40 category on the same course in 2018, clocking 2:07:50.

His latest performance further strengthens his connection with the German race, where he has repeatedly demonstrated his ability to produce outstanding results across different stages of his career.

Beyond the numbers, Kiptoo's achievement carries an inspiring message for runners around the world. His continued success demonstrates the value of discipline, experience and perseverance, challenging conventional assumptions about the age at which athletes can remain competitive.

For Kenya, his performance adds another remarkable chapter to the country's rich distance-running heritage. Meanwhile, the victories of Denki and Yimer ensured that Ethiopia also left Frankfurt celebrating a memorable day on the marathon circuit.

The 2026 Frankfurt Marathon therefore delivered a compelling combination of elite competition and sporting inspiration, from the fast times at the front of the men's and women's races to Kiptoo's extraordinary achievement in the masters category.

At 50, Kiptoo continues to challenge expectations and push the boundaries of what is possible in distance running, proving that a passion for excellence can endure long after many athletes have retired.

Rodrigue Kwizera produced a historic performance at the Valencia Half Marathon on October 25, 2026, storming to victory in 58:03 to set a new Spanish national record in the men’s half marathon.

The Burundi-born distance runner, who represents Spain internationally, delivered a decisive finish after leading for much of the second half of the race. He unleashed a powerful final kick over the closing 800 metres to secure the title and cap a remarkable performance on one of the world’s fastest half-marathon courses.

Kwizera held off compatriot Thierry Ndikumwenayo, who finished second in 58:09, while Kenya’s Víctor Kipruto claimed third place in 58:13.

Ethiopia’s Tadesse Worku finished fourth in 58:33, followed by Kenya’s Owen Korir Kapkama in fifth in 58:42. Ethiopia’s Jemal Yimer placed sixth in 59:01, while Kenya’s James Kipkosgei finished seventh in 59:03 and compatriot Brian Kipkore took eighth in 59:12. Sudan’s Yaseen Abdalla secured ninth place in 59:20, finishing in the same time as France’s Emmanuel Roudolff-Levisse, who rounded out the top 10.

The men's contest showcased the fine margins separating victory from defeat at the highest level of road running. Kwizera's ability to maintain his position before accelerating in the closing stages proved decisive, allowing him to break away and secure a memorable victory.

In the women’s race, Kenya’s Sheila Chepkirui claimed victory in 1:03:51, narrowly defeating compatriot Diana Wanza, who finished just one second behind in 1:03:52. Daisilah Jerono completed a Kenyan sweep of the podium in 1:04:11.

Chepkirui’s performance was particularly impressive, as she improved substantially on her listed personal best of 1:06:01, delivering a breakthrough performance against a strong international field.

The women's race featured a strong contingent of Kenyan and Ethiopian distance runners, with the leading athletes pushing each other to impressive times. Chepkirui maintained her advantage in a tightly contested finish, while Wanza came agonisingly close to taking the title.

Ethiopia’s Mizan Alem finished fourth in 1:04:54, followed by compatriot Senayet Getachew in 1:04:57. Kenya’s Caroline Gitonga placed sixth in 1:04:59, while Gladys Kwamboka finished seventh in 1:05:02. Jesca Chelangat took eighth in 1:05:29, followed by Miriam Chebet in 1:05:39. Ethiopia’s Aynadis Mebratu completed the top 10 in 1:05:40.

The depth of the women's results underlined the intensity of the competition, with six athletes finishing inside 1:05:00. Kenya's ability to secure the first three places further demonstrated the country's strength in international road racing.

For Kwizera, the victory represented more than another international title. His 58:03 performance established a new benchmark for Spain, adding a national-record achievement to a race defined by speed, tactical discipline and a decisive late surge.

Valencia's reputation as a destination for outstanding distance-running performances was once again reinforced by the quality of the racing. The fast course and deep international fields provided the setting for athletes to test their limits and deliver performances that will stand out in the season's road-running calendar.

With Kwizera celebrating a Spanish national record and Chepkirui leading a Kenyan sweep of the women's podium, the 2026 Valencia Half Marathon delivered a compelling double triumph, celebrating individual excellence and the remarkable depth of international distance running

The 2026 Casablanca Half Marathon is set to deliver an exciting contest on Sunday, October 25, with Morocco's leading distance runners preparing to defend home honours against a competitive international field featuring some of East Africa's finest athletes.

Moroccan standout Mustapha Akkaoui headlines the men's elite start list with an impressive personal best of 1:00:38, making him the fastest athlete entered on paper. With the support of the home crowd behind him, Akkaoui will be aiming to turn his credentials into a memorable performance on Moroccan soil.

However, the Moroccan favourite faces a serious challenge from Kenya, with Shadrack Korir Kipyegon and Joshua Munyoto Kithuku leading the international threat. Korir Kipyegon enters with a personal best of 1:01:19, while Kithuku has clocked 1:01:24. Both athletes possess the credentials to challenge for the podium and will be determined to disrupt Akkaoui's ambitions.

Uganda's Martin Kiprotich also adds considerable strength to the contest. With a personal best of 1:01:30, Kiprotich is another serious contender capable of making his presence felt in a race expected to feature an intense battle among the leading athletes.

The opening four names on the start list are separated by just 52 seconds in their respective personal bests, underlining the potential for a competitive race if the leading runners find favourable conditions and maintain a demanding pace. Although Akkaoui holds the fastest time, his advantage on paper offers no guarantee of victory against opponents eager to challenge the Moroccan favourite.

Beyond the leading international contenders, the men's field features a strong contingent of Moroccan athletes, including Allami Yassine, Fathi Abdenasir, El Hassouni Ahmed, Bybat Mohammed, Mounir Elouali and Ait Taghzant Mohammed. Their presence gives the host nation considerable depth and could produce an intriguing battle for the leading positions behind the principal contenders.

Ethiopia's Taha Adem Gudeto, listed with a personal best of 1:02:52, provides another international dimension to the race. Meanwhile, a host of Moroccan runners with personal bests ranging from the low 1:02s to the 1:04s will be looking to deliver strong performances and improve their standing against a competitive field.

With Akkaoui leading the entries, Kenya bringing two formidable challengers and Uganda represented by Kiprotich, the men's contest promises an engaging clash of national ambitions. The key question is whether the Moroccan favourite can capitalise on home advantage or whether the East African challenge will produce a different winner.

Men's Elite Start List — Leading Athletes

1. Mustapha Akkaoui (Morocco) — 1:00:38

2. Shadrack Korir Kipyegon (Kenya) — 1:01:19

3. Joshua Munyoto Kithuku (Kenya) — 1:01:24

4. Martin Kiprotich (Uganda) — 1:01:30

5. Allami Yassine (Morocco) — 1:01:30

6. Fathi Abdenasir (Morocco) — 1:01:32

7. El Hassouni Ahmed (Morocco) — 1:01:43

8. Bybat Mohammed (Morocco) — 1:01:47

9. Mounir Elouali (Morocco) — 1:02:08

10. Ait Taghzant Mohammed (Morocco) — 1:02:13

As race day approaches, attention will centre on whether Akkaoui can deliver a winning performance in front of his home supporters or whether Kenya's and Uganda's challenge will prove decisive. With several athletes possessing personal bests close to the leading mark, Casablanca is preparing for a compelling half-marathon showdown.

Petros leads Germany’s top marathoners, Zeineba Yimer targets the women’s course record, and Kenya’s Mark Kiptoo chases an age-group milestone at Sunday’s Mainova Frankfurt Marathon.

The Mainova Frankfurt Marathon could deliver a series of record performances on Sunday, October 25—if the weather cooperates.

The 43rd edition brings together the fastest men’s field in the event’s history, with German and European records potentially within reach. Both course records—2:03:42 for men and 2:17:25 for women—could come under pressure, while a promising German debut and an M50 world-best attempt add further interest.

Conditions will play a decisive role. Rain, cold and strong winds could derail ambitious pacing plans. If the weather settles, Frankfurt’s flat course could provide the setting for an exceptional day.

Organizers have reported a record 19,720 entries from 128 nations. The occasion also marks the final race for Jo Schindler as race director.

“We are absolutely delighted with this record number of entries. Over the past 25 years, we have taken the Mainova Frankfurt Marathon to a whole new level in every aspect,” Schindler said.

Germany’s Best Take Center Stage

Leading the men’s field is Amanal Petros, the German record-holder at 2:04:03, who won the European marathon title in Birmingham in August. He arrives with ambitions that could extend beyond his own national mark to the European record of 2:03:36.

“My training in Kenya went very well. If the weather is on my side, it could happen,” Petros said. “I have been dreaming of breaking the European record for several years now.”

A European record would also take him under Wilson Kipsang’s Frankfurt course record of 2:03:42, set in 2011.

Petros will face a strong domestic challenge from Samuel Fitwi, whose 2:04:45 runner-up finish in Hamburg in April is the fastest German performance this year.

“If the weather is good, the German record is within reach on the flat course in Frankfurt. I am well prepared and definitely want to beat my personal best,” Fitwi said.

Richard Ringer, the 2022 European marathon champion, completes the leading German trio. His record-eligible personal best is 2:05:46, although he ran 2:04:47 at Boston this spring on its non-record-eligible course.

Ringer plans a more measured approach after overcoming a muscle problem following the European Championships.

“I do not expect to be running right at the front on Sunday and will probably go with a second group,” he said.

Biwott Returns With Winning Ambition 

The German contenders will have plenty of international competition.

Ethiopia’s Andualem Belay brings a personal best of 2:04:44, while Kenya’s Benard Biwottreturns to the scene of his breakthrough. Biwott won his marathon debut in Frankfurt in 2024 in 2:05:54, then improved to 2:05:25 while winning the 2025 Paris Marathon.

“My aim is to win on Sunday. I think I can achieve a time of around 2:04:00,” Biwott said.

Another Kenyan, Mark Kiptoo, could deliver one of the day’s most compelling performances. Now 50, the 2014 Frankfurt champion is targeting the M50 world best of 2:19:29, set by South Africa’s Titus Mamabolo in Durban in 1991.

Kiptoo has already made masters history in Frankfurt, running 2:07:50 here in 2018.

Yimer Targets the Women’s Course Record

Ethiopia’s Zeineba Yimer leads the women’s field with a personal best of 2:18:47, set while finishing third in Barcelona this spring 

The 28-year-old is seeking a turnaround after stomach problems forced her out of the Berlin Marathon four weeks ago. Her ambitions include challenging the Frankfurt course record of 2:17:25, set by Hawi Feysa in 2024.

“Now I want to make the most of the flat course in Frankfurt and set a personal best. I have also got my sights set on the course record and want to break that mark as well,” Yimer said.

American Betsy Saina, who has run 2:19:17, returns from a maternity break and is targeting a halfway split of 70:00.

Kenya’s Marion Kibor, who improved to 2:21:12 in Hamburg this spring, also hopes to break 2:20. Ethiopia’s Meskerem Assefa, the 2018 Frankfurt champion, returns with the 2:20:36 personal best she set during that victory.

Dörfel Runs on Instinct in Marathon Debut

Germany’s Blanka Dörfel adds an intriguing debut to the women’s race.

The 24-year-old ran a half-marathon personal best of 68:08 in Mainz this spring and intends to trust her feel for the pace as she moves up to the marathon.

“I will be running without a watch and will trust my instincts,” Dörfel said.

Her half-marathon performance suggests the potential for a strong debut. The German women’s debut benchmark is 2:23:57, set by Melat Kejeta in Berlin in 2019.

Elite Runners with Personal Bests

MEN

Amanal Petros GER 2:04:03

Andualem Belay ETH 2:04:44

Samuel Fitwi GER 2:04:45

Richard Ringer GER 2:04:47

Benard Biwott KEN 2:05:25

Haimro Alame ISR 2:06:04

Antenayehu Dagnachew ETH 2:06:55

Jiregna Geleta ETH 2:06:57

Derara Hurisa ETH 2:08:09

Jirata Dinki ETH 2:08:18

Abe Gashahun ETH 2:08:35

Lemawork Ketema AUT 2:10:44

WOMEN

Zeineba Yimer ETH 2:18:47

Betsy Saina USA 2:19:17

Meskerem Assefa ETH 2:20:36

Siranesh Yirga ETH 2:21:08

Marion Kibor KEN 2:21:12

Janet Ruguru KEN 2:23:00

Mehret Gemeda ETH 2:23:29

Milicent Jelimo KEN 2:24:19

Obse Abdeta ETH 2:27:14

Martina Strähl SUI 2:28:07

Selam Fente ETH 2:28:22

Aselef Amare ETH 2:28:47

Blanka Dörfel GER Debut

Kenyan distance running has been rocked by a major development after Peres Jepchirchir, the reigning world marathon champion and 2021 Olympic gold medallist, was provisionally suspended by the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) following an adverse analytical finding for erythropoietin (EPO).

The 33-year-old reportedly tested positive for the prohibited substance in an out-of-competition sample collected in Kenya before the Sydney Marathon on August 30, 2026. The development has cast uncertainty over the future of one of the most accomplished female marathon runners of her generation, whose impressive career includes Olympic gold, a world championship title and victories at three of the sport's most prestigious marathons.

Jepchirchir returned to marathon competition in Sydney after a stress fracture forced her to withdraw from the London Marathon in April. Her comeback initially appeared to be another triumphant chapter in her career, as she stormed to victory in 2:18:31, finishing 3:40 ahead of compatriot Irine Cheptai.

However, the reported adverse analytical finding has placed that achievement under scrutiny, with the possibility that her Sydney victory could eventually be annulled depending on the outcome of the anti-doping proceedings.

Under anti-doping rules, results can be disqualified from the date of an adverse analytical finding or another applicable date determined under the regulations. If the relevant results are annulled, Jepchirchir could lose the Sydney Marathon title, which would have given her victories at four different World Marathon Majors, following her previous triumphs in New York, Boston and London.

EPO is a prohibited substance that stimulates red blood cell production, increasing the blood's capacity to transport oxygen to working muscles. Its performance-enhancing potential makes it particularly significant in endurance sports, including marathon running.

The substance is prohibited under anti-doping regulations, and a confirmed violation can carry serious consequences. Under the World Anti-Doping Code, a first violation involving a non-specified substance such as EPO generally carries a four-year period of ineligibility when the applicable conditions are met, although the final sanction depends on the circumstances of the case.

Jepchirchir's provisional suspension, however, is not a final sanction and does not itself establish that an anti-doping rule violation has been conclusively proven. The case must proceed through the relevant process, during which the athlete has the opportunity to exercise her rights under the applicable rules.

As of the information available, Jepchirchir has not commented publicly on the matter.

The Sydney Marathon has also acknowledged the seriousness of the situation while emphasising the importance of a fair process. In a statement, the event said Jepchirchir “is entitled to due process, and we will make no further comment on the case until that process has concluded.”

The case has attracted considerable attention because of Jepchirchir's standing in international athletics. She won Olympic marathon gold at the Tokyo Games in 2021 before claiming victory at the New York City Marathon later that year. In 2022, she conquered the Boston Marathon, adding another prestigious title to her growing collection.

Her success continued in 2024 when she won the London Marathon, becoming one of the few women to capture victories at New York, Boston and London. She subsequently reached another career milestone at the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, where she won the women's marathon title by just two seconds in a dramatic finish against Ethiopia's Tigst Assefa.

Jepchirchir has also established herself among the fastest women in marathon history. Her personal best of 2:14:43 places her ninth on the all-time women's marathon list, underscoring the level of performance that has defined her career.

Beyond the immediate implications for her Sydney victory, the case could have wider consequences if an anti-doping rule violation is ultimately established. The World Marathon Majors' rules provide for lifetime exclusion from the series for athletes who receive a doping-related ban of three months or longer, meaning a sufficiently lengthy sanction could jeopardise Jepchirchir's future participation in all eight events.

For an athlete who has built her reputation through success on the sport's biggest stages, such an outcome would represent a significant setback. Nevertheless, any consequences for her results, eligibility or future participation will depend on the applicable rules and the final outcome of the proceedings.

The development also renews attention on Kenya's ongoing efforts to protect the integrity of distance running. The country has produced generations of exceptional marathon runners, but high-profile anti-doping cases continue to raise difficult questions about clean competition and the responsibility of athletes, coaches and support personnel.

For now, the focus remains on the AIU's proceedings and the evidence surrounding the reported finding. Jepchirchir's provisional suspension marks a serious moment in her career, but the distinction between an adverse analytical finding and a final ruling remains essential as the case moves forward.

Once celebrated for her Olympic triumph, world championship glory and victories in the world's most prestigious marathons, the Kenyan star now faces an uncertain period as the anti-doping process unfolds. The eventual outcome will determine whether her latest Sydney success remains part of her remarkable record or becomes one of the most consequential episodes of her career.

Ethiopian marathon star Ruti Aga has been handed a six-year suspension by the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) after testing positive for methylprednisolone and being found guilty of tampering with an anti-doping investigation by submitting a forged medical document.

The former Tokyo Marathon champion tested positive for the prohibited substance after winning the Meishan Renshou Half Marathon in China on March 15, 2026, in a time of 1:08:04. At the time, Aga was ranked 11th in the world, reflecting her standing among the leading marathon runners internationally.

Methylprednisolone is a glucocorticoid classified under Class S9 of the World Anti-Doping Agency’s Prohibited List. It is prohibited in competition, and its detection prompted an investigation into the circumstances surrounding its use.

However, the case became considerably more serious when investigators examined Aga’s explanation for the substance’s presence in her sample. The Ethiopian athlete said she had taken the medication as part of treatment for a knee injury and submitted a prescription that she claimed had been issued by a medical clinic.

According to the AIU’s findings, the clinic named in the document did not exist. The individual identified as the prescribing doctor was a family member who was not registered to practise medicine. When questioned, the family member reportedly said they had used an old prescription pad from a former workplace.

That workplace subsequently confirmed that the individual had never worked there and that the prescription pad did not belong to the institution. The AIU, working with the Ethiopian Anti-Doping Authority, established that the medical document was forged.

The investigation also found that Aga had provided false information during an AIU interview on April 21, 2026, before submitting the disputed medical document on May 4. The findings resulted in a separate tampering charge in addition to the original anti-doping violation.

The AIU imposed a two-year suspension for the presence and use of a specified substance and a further four years for tampering with the investigation. The combined penalties resulted in a six-year ban, with Aga ineligible to compete until September 10, 2032, when she will be 38 years old.

The sanction marks a major setback for a runner whose career has included victories and podium finishes at some of the world's most prestigious road races.

Aga won the Tokyo Marathon in 2019, following a series of outstanding performances on the World Marathon Majors circuit. Between 2016 and 2019, she collected six podium finishes at the major marathons, including second-place finishes in Berlin in 2017 and 2018, second place in Tokyo in 2018, third place in Berlin in 2016 and third place in New York City in 2019.

She has not competed at a World Marathon Major since 2022, but continued to achieve success elsewhere on the international road-running circuit.

Between 2023 and 2026, Aga recorded five marathon victories across Dongying, Daegu, Xiamen and Hangzhou, including back-to-back wins at the Xiamen Marathon in 2025 and 2026. She also finished runner-up twice in Dubai and once in Sydney, maintaining a strong presence in elite marathon competition.

Her personal best of 2:18:09 further underlines the level at which she has competed throughout her career.

Despite those achievements, the six-year suspension places her future in the sport in serious doubt. If she returns when the ban expires in September 2032, Aga will be 38 and will have spent six years away from competition under the sanction.

The case also serves as a reminder that anti-doping proceedings extend beyond laboratory results. Athletes are expected to comply with anti-doping rules throughout an investigation, and attempts to mislead investigators or submit forged evidence can result in additional sanctions beyond those imposed for the original violation.

For Aga, the ruling brings a difficult chapter to a career that once saw her among the world's leading marathon runners, with her Tokyo victory and years of international success now overshadowed by one of the most consequential disciplinary cases of her career.

Ethiopia’s Olympic marathon champion Tamirat Tola delivered a sensational performance at the 2026 Bank of China Beijing Marathon, storming to victory in 2:03:10 on Sunday, October 18, to set a new course record and establish the fastest marathon time ever recorded on Chinese soil.

Tola produced a commanding display in the Chinese capital, becoming the first man to break 2:04 at the Beijing Marathon. His remarkable performance demolished the previous course record of 2:07:06 by almost four minutes, underlining his position among the world’s leading marathon runners.

The Ethiopian star also surpassed the previous reported best marathon time on Chinese soil of 2:05:34, set by a Kenyan runner in Shanghai in 2023, ushering in a new era for marathon running in China with his outstanding 2:03:10 performance.

The 2026 Beijing Marathon and National Marathon Championships attracted approximately 32,000 runners, transforming the streets of the Chinese capital into a celebration of distance running. The race began near the iconic Tian’anmen Square before heading towards the Olympic Park, with elite athletes and amateur runners setting off together under the same starting gun on a beautiful autumn morning.

More than 23,000 participants, representing over 70 per cent of the field, travelled from outside Beijing, highlighting the event’s national appeal and its ability to bring together runners from across China and beyond. The combination of world-class competition and mass participation made the marathon a major sporting occasion, with Tola’s record-breaking run providing the standout performance of the day.

Over more than four decades, the Beijing Marathon has evolved through changing courses, growing participation and increasingly impressive performances. However, its connection to the Chinese capital’s distinctive identity remains unchanged. Known as the “Dual Olympic City” for hosting the 2008 Summer Olympics and the 2022 Winter Olympics, Beijing once again provided a memorable stage for an event that combined elite athletics, community participation and the beauty of the city in autumn.

Ethiopia completed a clean sweep of the men’s podium, demonstrating the country’s remarkable depth in marathon running. Muktar Edris finished second in 2:04:34, while Adane Kebede Gebre took third place in 2:05:10, giving Ethiopia all three top positions in a high-quality international field.

China’s Dalin Li led the home contingent in fourth place in 2:08:30, followed by compatriot Tianyu Chen in fifth in 2:09:09. Fakun Jiang finished sixth in 2:09:29, while Yunce Xie secured seventh in 2:09:47. Jinh u Mao placed eighth in 2:10:39, Shaohui Yang finished ninth in 2:10:42, and Ciren Zhaxi completed the men’s top 10 in 2:11:13, rounding off a competitive race dominated by Ethiopia at the front and featuring a strong Chinese presence among the leading finishers.

Tola, the Paris 2024 Olympic marathon champion, arrived in Beijing with high expectations and delivered emphatically. His performance not only rewrote the course record but also established a new benchmark for marathon racing in China, making the 2026 edition a landmark moment for the event.

Anchinalu Dessie Leads Ethiopian Success in Women’s Race

Ethiopia also celebrated victory in the women’s race, with Anchinalu Dessie Genaneh taking the title in 2:20:36 after an impressive performance over the 42.195-kilometre distance.

Dessie’s victory gave Ethiopia a memorable double at the Beijing Marathon, with the East African nation claiming the top spot in both elite races. China’s Cuomu Ciren finished second in 2:23:48 to lead the home challenge, while compatriot Ying Lu secured third place in 2:24:24.

The women’s race also showcased considerable depth, with nine athletes finishing inside 2:30:00. Qing Zhu placed fourth in 2:27:26, followed by Yuyu Xia in 2:27:33. North Korea’s Hye-Song Kim finished sixth in 2:28:14, ahead of Shuangshuang Xu in 2:28:25 and Yiting Yang in 2:28:47. Hongmei Jiang took ninth in 2:29:56, while Yi Tian completed the top 10 in 2:30:31.

The 2026 Beijing Marathon will be remembered for Tola’s extraordinary course-record victory, Ethiopia’s dominance in the men’s race and the country’s success in the women’s contest. With tens of thousands of participants filling the streets, the event once again demonstrated the power of marathon running to unite elite athletes and everyday runners in one of the world’s most historic cities.

On This Day in 1964, Ethiopian distance-running legend Abebe Bikila cemented his place among the greatest marathon runners in history, winning his second consecutive Olympic marathon gold medal at the Tokyo Games with a sensational world-record performance.

Four years after making history at the 1960 Rome Olympics, Bikila returned to the biggest stage in athletics and delivered another extraordinary display of endurance, determination and class. He crossed the finish line in 2:12:11.2, setting a new world record and Olympic record to become the first athlete to successfully defend the men’s Olympic marathon title.

His triumph in Tokyo was particularly remarkable because it came just weeks after he underwent an appendectomy. Despite the setback, the Ethiopian champion demonstrated exceptional resilience, proving once again that his greatness extended far beyond his remarkable physical abilities.

Bikila had first announced himself to the world in Rome in 1960, where he won the Olympic marathon in 2:15:16.2, establishing a world record. Running barefoot on the streets of the Italian capital, he became an international sensation and the first athlete from sub-Saharan Africa to win an Olympic gold medal.

His victory carried enormous historical significance, making him a symbol of African sporting excellence and inspiring generations of distance runners across Ethiopia and the wider continent.

At Tokyo 1964, Bikila returned in even more commanding fashion. This time, he wore running shoes as he navigated the Japanese capital’s streets, producing a masterful performance to finish more than four minutes ahead of his closest rival. His winning time of 2:12:11.2 lowered his own world record by 3 minutes and 5 seconds, an astonishing improvement at the highest level of marathon running.

Great Britain’s Basil Heatley claimed the silver medal in 2:16:19.2, while Japan’s Kōkichi Tsuburaya delighted the home crowd by securing bronze in 2:16:22.8.

The Tokyo podium reflected Bikila’s extraordinary superiority on the day, as he once again demonstrated his ability to rise to the occasion when Olympic glory was at stake.

Bikila’s back-to-back victories established a rare benchmark in Olympic marathon history. Only three men have successfully defended the Olympic marathon title: Bikila in 1960 and 1964, East Germany’s Waldemar Cierpinski in 1976 and 1980, and Kenya’s Eliud Kipchoge in 2016 and 2021.

Cierpinski and Kipchoge would later join the Ethiopian in this exclusive club, but Bikila remains the man who first achieved the feat, setting a standard that endured for more than half a century before Kipchoge became the third man to accomplish it.

Beyond his medals and records, Bikila’s legacy rests on the barriers he broke and the inspiration he provided. His performances helped establish Ethiopia as a global distance-running powerhouse and opened the door for generations of African athletes to excel on the international stage.

More than six decades after his Tokyo triumph, Abebe Bikila’s name remains synonymous with courage, endurance and Olympic greatness. His remarkable achievement in 1964 was not merely another marathon victory; it was a defining moment in the history of athletics, securing his place among the sport’s most enduring legends.

Kenyan twin sisters Caroline and Purity Gitonga are preparing to take on a formidable international field at the Valencia Half Marathon Trinidad Alfonso Zurich in Spain on Sunday, October 25, 2026, as they look to make their mark on one of the world's premier road-running stages.

The sisters will carry Kenya's hopes into a highly competitive women's race featuring Ethiopian stars Yalemzerf Yehualaw and Tsigie Gebreselama, setting the stage for an exciting showdown over the 21.0975-kilometre distance.

Caroline heads to Valencia in impressive form following a breakthrough season that has elevated her profile on the international road-running circuit. She claimed silver in the women's 5km at the World Athletics Road Running Championships in Copenhagen before continuing her strong campaign with a commanding victory in the 10km race in Castellón, Spain, clocking 29:34.

Her performances have underlined her speed, consistency and growing confidence on the roads. The Valencia Half Marathon, however, presents a different challenge, requiring greater endurance and tactical discipline against some of the world's most accomplished distance runners.

Caroline will be particularly keen to translate her success over shorter distances into a strong performance over the half-marathon distance. With a personal best of 1:06:16, she has already demonstrated considerable ability over 21.1 kilometres and will be looking to build on that foundation against a world-class field.

Purity will join her twin sister on the starting line, adding an intriguing family dimension to Kenya's challenge in Spain. The two athletes have demonstrated their quality on the roads, and their participation in such a competitive race offers another opportunity to showcase their talent on the international stage.

Purity also brings valuable experience to the contest, having recorded a half-marathon personal best of 1:06:50. Her presence alongside Caroline gives the Kenyan contingent two capable competitors, each with the potential to produce an impressive performance against the elite opposition.

Standing in their way will be a formidable Ethiopian challenge led by Yalemzerf Yehualaw and Tsigie Gebreselama. Both athletes bring considerable international pedigree, making them important names to watch as the race unfolds. Their presence raises the competitive stakes and ensures the Kenyan sisters will need to deliver their best performances to contend for the leading positions.

The Valencia Half Marathon has established itself as one of the most prestigious races on the international road-running calendar, attracting elite athletes seeking fast times and strong competition. Its reputation makes it an ideal stage for runners looking to test their fitness, challenge their personal bests and measure themselves against the world's leading distance-running talent.

For Caroline, Sunday's race represents an opportunity to build on the momentum generated by her world championship silver medal and impressive Castellón victory. A strong performance would further strengthen her standing among Kenya's emerging road-running stars while demonstrating her potential over the longer distance.

For Purity, the challenge offers an equally important opportunity to make her mark in a race packed with international quality. Competing alongside her twin sister may add a special dimension to the occasion, but both athletes will ultimately be focused on executing their individual race strategies and producing their strongest possible performances.

With Kenya and Ethiopia set to feature prominently in the women's contest, the Valencia Half Marathon promises a compelling battle of speed, endurance and tactical judgment. The quality of the field means that every kilometre could prove decisive as the contenders position themselves for a strong finish.

Kenyan athletics fans will be watching closely to see whether Caroline can carry her outstanding shorter-distance form into the half marathon and how Purity fares against the experienced international opposition. Their participation adds another exciting storyline to a race renowned for its fast pace and elite competition.

As the countdown to Sunday continues, the Gitonga twins will be aiming to turn their preparations into memorable performances on Spanish soil. With Caroline arriving on the back of major international success and Purity bringing her own credentials to the challenge, the sisters will have a valuable opportunity to showcase Kenyan distance-running talent against some of the strongest athletes in the world.

Ethiopian marathon superstar Tigst Assefa has begun the long road to recovery after undergoing successful surgery to repair a ruptured right Achilles tendon sustained during the closing stages of the 2026 Berlin Marathon.

What made her performance in Berlin even more remarkable was not simply the record she broke, but the extraordinary circumstances under which she achieved it.

With just a few kilometres remaining, Assefa suffered the serious Achilles injury. Yet instead of stopping, the Ethiopian fought through the pain, hopping and running on her injured leg as she battled her way toward the finish.

She eventually crossed the line in 2:11:04, producing a remarkable performance that secured a new Berlin Marathon course record despite the devastating injury.

It was a finish that revealed another side of a champion — one defined not only by speed and world-class talent, but also by extraordinary determination and an unwillingness to give up when the odds were suddenly stacked against her.

Following the race, Assefa underwent successful surgery in Munich, Germany, to repair the ruptured Achilles tendon. Her rehabilitation is now expected to keep her away from competitive running for at least six months as she begins the demanding process of healing, rebuilding strength and gradually working her way back toward full fitness.

Her medical care and recovery are being coordinated with the support of Demadonna Athletic Promotions.

For an athlete who has spent recent years redefining the limits of women’s marathon running, the coming months will require a very different kind of patience. There will be no starting lines, record attempts or final-kilometre battles. Instead, her progress will be measured through the quieter victories of rehabilitation — restoring strength, regaining confidence, rebuilding fitness and eventually returning to the training environment.

Assefa’s Berlin performance will forever be remembered for the course record, but the manner in which she reached the finish may prove just as unforgettable. She did not simply run through adversity; she fought her way through it.

Now, however, the record can wait.

The race has changed. The goal is no longer to chase seconds on the clock, but to give her body the time and care it needs to heal.

The road back may be long and challenging, but the athletics world will be watching, supporting and waiting for the day one of marathon running’s biggest stars is ready to lace up again.

Can The Legend Defy The Years? Kenenisa Bekele Is Chasing Another Piece Of History.

At 44, Ethiopian distance-running legend Kenenisa Bekele is preparing for another remarkable challenge as he returns to competition at the Valencia Half Marathon on October 25, 2026, only weeks after withdrawing from the Berlin Marathon because of a left Achilles tendon injury.

Rather than simply making a comeback, Bekele is targeting another piece of history. The three-time Olympic champion will have his sights set on the M40 world record of 59:53, held by Switzerland’s Tadesse Abraham.

Bekele’s personal best stands at 1:00:22, set at the Big Half in London in 2020. To break Abraham’s mark, the Ethiopian will need to take almost 30 seconds off his best — a formidable challenge, particularly after an injury and a disrupted season.

But Bekele has never been a stranger to defying expectations. His return to Valencia comes at an age when most elite distance runners have long since retired, yet he continues to test himself against the best of a younger generation.

And the challenge awaiting him will be formidable. The men’s field includes Rodrigue Kwizera (58:16), Jemal Yimer (58:33), Tadese Worku (58:47) and Daniel Ebenyo (59:04), giving Bekele a formidable group of sub-one-hour performers to race alongside.

Bekele will wear bib number 18, adding another intriguing detail to a comeback that has already generated huge interest across the running world. Valencia’s famously fast course could provide the perfect setting for the Ethiopian to attack the clock if his body responds well on race day.

For Bekele, however, this is about more than a number on the clock. From his extraordinary track dominance to his longevity on the marathon and road-racing scene, he has repeatedly shown an ability to compete long after many expected his career to wind down.

Now, another chapter awaits in Valencia. Can the 44-year-old Ethiopian legend turn back the clock, overcome the effects of his Achilles injury and rewrite the masters record books? The answer will come on October 25. 

Kenya’s Filex Kibet delivered a sensational performance at the 2026 Wizz Air Rome Half Marathon by Brooks, storming to victory in a remarkable 59:22 to establish a new men’s course record and headline an impressive display of distance running in the Italian capital.

The Kenyan produced a commanding performance over the 21.0975km distance, combining speed, endurance and tactical discipline to secure the prestigious title. His record-breaking achievement was the defining moment of an exciting competition that brought together some of the finest road-running talents from East Africa.

Kibet's winning time not only secured him a place in the event's history but also demonstrated his ability to compete at an exceptional level on the international road-running circuit. Breaking the one-hour barrier in a half marathon remains a significant benchmark in elite distance running, and his performance underlined the quality of the men's field.

Ethiopia's Selemon Atakiti Kidanu emerged as one of the standout performers of the day, producing an outstanding half-marathon debut to finish second in 59:38. Despite competing over the distance for the first time, the Ethiopian displayed remarkable composure and endurance, crossing the finish line just 16 seconds behind the eventual champion.

Kenya's Elisha Kiprop completed the men's podium after clocking 1:00:13, ensuring that two Kenyan athletes finished among the top three. His performance added further strength to Kenya's presence in a highly competitive race that saw the leading contenders produce impressive times on the streets of Rome.

While Kibet dominated the headlines in the men's competition, Ethiopia's Netsanet Desta delivered an equally impressive performance in the women's race, claiming victory in 1:07:26 to complete a memorable day of elite road racing.

Desta demonstrated exceptional consistency throughout the demanding half-marathon distance, maintaining the pace necessary to overcome a competitive field and secure the women's title. Her victory highlighted Ethiopia's continued strength in international distance running.

Kenya's Regina Wambui Ndungu mounted a strong challenge but ultimately settled for second place in 1:07:48, finishing 22 seconds behind the Ethiopian champion. Ndungu's performance ensured Kenya was represented on both the men's and women's podiums.

Ethiopia's Yalemget Yaregal rounded out the women's top three, crossing the finish line in 1:08:22 to complete an impressive Ethiopian showing in the women's competition.

The contrasting victories of Kibet and Desta provided the perfect storyline for an event that continues to attract accomplished distance runners to one of Europe's most historic cities. With athletes competing against the clock and one another, the race delivered both a new course record and an impressive collection of performances.

For Kibet, the achievement represents another significant milestone, with his name now attached to the men's course record. His 59:22 performance establishes a new standard for future competitors seeking success at the Rome Half Marathon.

Kidanu's impressive debut also offered a glimpse of his potential over the distance, while the strong performances of Kiprop, Ndungu and Yaregal further demonstrated the depth of talent competing at the event.

The 2026 edition will be remembered particularly for Kibet's record-breaking triumph, as the Kenyan's exceptional run added a new chapter to the race's history and reinforced Rome's growing reputation as a destination for elite international road racing.

With the men's course record rewritten and two deserving champions crowned, the Italian capital once again provided a memorable stage for some of the world's most accomplished distance-running talents.

Kenya delivered a commanding performance at the 2026 TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon, as Leonard Langat successfully defended his title and led a remarkable Kenyan sweep of the men’s podium in Toronto, Canada.

Langat crossed the finish line in 2:06:51, confirming his dominance for a second consecutive year. The Kenyan distance runner once again demonstrated his strength and consistency over the 42.195-kilometre distance, retaining the crown he claimed in 2025.

Fellow Kenyan Noah Kipkemboi secured second place in an impressive 2:07:21, while Fanny Kiprotich completed the all-Kenyan podium, finishing third in 2:07:25. The narrow four-second gap between Kipkemboi and Kiprotich added further intrigue to an outstanding Kenyan display.

Kenya’s dominance extended beyond the podium, with Absel Rutto finishing fourth in 2:07:32 and Elvis Cheboi taking fifth. The top five positions were occupied entirely by Kenyan athletes, underlining the country's remarkable depth and continued strength in international marathon running.

Langat's successful title defence was the highlight of a memorable day for Kenya, with three compatriots securing the podium places and five finishing among the top five. The performance reinforced Kenya's reputation as a powerhouse in long-distance running and demonstrated the country's ability to produce world-class marathoners.

The defending champion's victory was particularly significant given the competitive nature of the field, which featured accomplished marathon runners determined to challenge his supremacy. However, Langat rose to the occasion, producing another outstanding performance that demonstrated his ability to deliver under pressure on one of Canada's biggest road-running stages.

Meanwhile, Andrew Davies claimed the Canadian men's championship in 2:08:48. Davies delivered an impressive performance to become the leading Canadian finisher, earning national honours in a race that saw Kenyan athletes dominate the overall standings. His achievement provided a significant highlight for the home nation.

In the women's competition, Leah Jeruto emerged as the overall champion, crossing the finish line in 2:21:19 to secure victory at the 2026 TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon. Her triumph added to Kenya's success at the event, making it another memorable outing for the country's distance-running contingent.

Jeruto faced strong competition from Ethiopia's Nigsti Haftu, who finished second in 2:21:34, just 15 seconds behind the winner. Fellow Ethiopian Ayinadis Teshome completed the women's podium in 2:22:51, while Biruktayit Degefa followed in fourth place with 2:24:07. Their performances highlighted the fierce rivalry between some of East Africa's leading marathon runners.

The women's race also demonstrated the remarkable depth of international marathon competition, with athletes from Kenya, Ethiopia and Canada producing impressive performances. Jeruto's victory, combined with Langat's successful title defence, ensured that Kenya celebrated a memorable double triumph in Toronto.

Canada also celebrated success in the women's national championship, with Dayna Pidhoresky taking the Canadian women's title in 2:26:02. Her performance highlighted the strength of the country's leading female distance runners and gave Canadian supporters another reason to celebrate at their home marathon.

Top 10 Men's Finishers – 2026 Toronto Waterfront Marathon

1. Leonard Langat (Kenya) – 2:06:51

2. Noah Kipkemboi (Kenya) – 2:07:21

3. Fanny Kiprotich (Kenya) – 2:07:25

4. Absel Rutto (Kenya) – 2:07:32

5. Elvis Cheboi (Kenya) – 2:07:37

6. Wesley Kiptoo (USA) – 2:08:08

7. Gizealew Ayana (Ethiopia) – 2:08:10

8. Yismaw Atinafu (Ethiopia) – 2:08:44

9. Andrew Davies (Canada) – 2:08:48

10. John Gay (Canada) – 2:13:01

Top 10 Women's Finishers – 2026 Toronto Waterfront Marathon

1. Leah Jeruto (Kenya) – 2:21:19

2. Nigsti Haftu (Ethiopia) – 2:21:34

3. Ayinadis Teshome (Ethiopia) – 2:22:51

4. Biruktayit Degefa (Ethiopia) – 2:24:07

5. Maritu Ketema (Kenya) – 2:24:45

6. Beatrice Cheserek (Kenya) – 2:24:54

7. Regina Cheptoo (Kenya) – 2:25:48

8. Dayna Pidhoresky (Canada) – 2:26:02

9. Betty Chepkorir (Canada) – 2:28:29

10. Florence Caron (Canada) – 2:29:37

Beyond the individual victories, the marathon once again demonstrated its importance as a major destination for elite distance runners seeking international recognition and competitive performances. The combination of established champions, emerging contenders and strong domestic representation contributed to another compelling edition of the prestigious Canadian road race.

With Langat defending his crown, Kenya sweeping the men's podium, Jeruto claiming the women's title, and Canadian champions Davies and Pidhoresky earning national honours, the 2026 TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon delivered an impressive showcase of distance-running excellence. The event celebrated both international competition and domestic achievement, with Kenya's outstanding depth and Canada's leading runners sharing the spotlight.

Ethiopian distance-running star Lemi Berhanu produced a sensational performance to win the 2026 TCS Amsterdam Marathon in a personal best of 2:03:33 on Sunday, overcoming fierce opposition from Kenya's Nicholas Kipkorir before unleashing a decisive finishing surge in the closing kilometre.

The 31-year-old's victory was a remarkable demonstration of endurance, tactical patience and determination. Having arrived in the Dutch capital with a previous personal best of 2:04:33, Berhanu improved his lifetime best by exactly one minute, delivering the fastest marathon of his career on one of the world's most renowned fast courses.

However, the victory was far from straightforward. Kenya's Kipkorir mounted a determined challenge in the closing stages, turning the contest into a gripping battle between two athletes determined to claim the Amsterdam crown.

With only a few kilometres remaining, Kipkorir surged towards the front, applying relentless pressure and forcing Berhanu to dig deep to remain in contention. The Kenyan's acceleration threatened to shift the balance of the race, creating an intense duel as the finish line drew closer.

Berhanu refused to surrender. Remaining composed under pressure, the Ethiopian stayed close to his rival, conserving enough energy to respond when the decisive moment arrived. Every stride carried enormous significance as the two leaders fought for supremacy in the closing kilometres.

Then came the final kilometre.

With victory hanging in the balance, Berhanu unleashed a devastating finishing surge, finding another gear when it mattered most. His acceleration proved decisive, allowing him to edge away from Kipkorir and secure a memorable victory. The Kenyan fought bravely to the finish, but Berhanu's perfectly timed move ultimately made the difference.

Kipkorir crossed the line in 2:03:39, just six seconds behind the winner with a huge personal best, while compatriot Patrick Mosin completed the podium in 2:03:58. Their performances underlined the extraordinary quality of the men's field, which produced remarkable depth and speed throughout the race.

Berhanu's winning time was also just three seconds outside the Amsterdam Marathon course record of 2:03:30, established by Kenya's Geoffrey Kipchumba in 2025. Kipchumba returned to defend his title, but it was Berhanu who stole the spotlight with a performance that combined tactical intelligence with an exceptional finishing kick.

The Ethiopian's triumph carries additional significance given his long journey in elite distance running. In 2016, at just 21 years old, he announced himself on the international stage by winning the prestigious Boston Marathon. That breakthrough established him as one of Ethiopia's promising marathon talents and appeared to herald a career filled with major international victories.

Over the following decade, Berhanu continued building his career through international competitions, including races in Mumbai and Prague. Now, ten years after his Boston breakthrough, he has delivered another defining performance, demonstrating that experience and persistence can still produce extraordinary results at the highest level.

His Amsterdam victory also reinforces the race's reputation as a destination for world-class marathon performances. Known for its predominantly flat course and competitive elite fields, the Dutch capital continues to attract athletes looking to challenge their personal bests and produce exceptional times.

The 2026 men's race provided further evidence of that reputation, with all 10 leading finishers recording times of 2:05:16 or faster. Kenyan runners occupied five of the top six positions, highlighting the country's formidable depth in international marathon running.

2026 Amsterdam Marathon Men's Top 10 Results

1. Lemi Berhanu (Ethiopia) — 2:03:33

2. Nicholas Kipkorir (Kenya) — 2:03:39

3. Patrick Mosin (Kenya) — 2:03:58

4. Kalipus Lomwai (Kenya) — 2:04:09

5. Sila Kiptoo (Kenya) — 2:04:13

6. Justus Kangogo (Kenya) — 2:04:24

7. Jonathan Korir (Kenya) — 2:04:53

8. Isaia Lasoi (Kenya) — 2:04:57

9. Yihunilign Adane (Ethiopia) — 2:05:16

10. Yohei Ikeda (Japan) — 2:05:16

For Berhanu, however, the numbers tell only part of the story. His victory was built on patience under pressure, the courage to withstand Kipkorir's late challenge and the strength to produce a decisive acceleration when the race was on the line. A minute faster than his previous best, he has transformed a memorable win into a personal milestone.

Amsterdam has once again delivered a spectacular marathon, raising an increasingly compelling question for the global running community: does a race capable of producing such depth, speed and drama deserve a place among the Abbott World Marathon Majors?

With another outstanding edition now complete, Berhanu's triumph has given the Dutch capital a compelling new chapter in its marathon history.

Ugandan distance-running star Deogratius Musobo delivered an impressive performance in Spain, claiming victory at the Bilbao Half Marathon with a course record and a personal milestone that makes his achievement even more remarkable.

Musobo crossed the finish line in 1:00:34, producing a commanding performance on his half marathon debut to secure the title and establish a new course record. His breakthrough victory marks an exciting moment for Ugandan road running, as he demonstrated his ability to compete at a high level over the 21.1km distance.

The race also produced a thrilling battle for the remaining podium positions, with Kenya’s Evans Kipkorir finishing just 11 seconds behind the winner. Kipkorir clocked 1:00:45, recording a personal best in an impressive display of consistency and determination.

Ethiopia’s Alemayehu Mulate Teshager completed the podium after crossing the line in 1:00:47, also achieving a personal best. The Ethiopian finished just two seconds behind Kipkorir, underlining how closely contested the fight for second place was.

The narrow margins between the three leading athletes highlighted the competitive quality of the race, with all three breaking the 61-minute barrier.

For Musobo, however, the day belonged to Uganda. To win a major road race on his debut over the half marathon distance while setting a course record is a significant achievement, offering an encouraging indication of what he could accomplish as he gains more experience over the distance.

His victory adds another memorable moment to Uganda’s growing presence in international distance running and provides fresh encouragement for the country’s athletes competing on the global road-running circuit.

With a course record already secured on his first attempt at the distance, Musobo has given himself a strong foundation for the next chapter of his career. His performance in Bilbao will be an important benchmark as he looks ahead to future challenges on the international road-running stage.

Musobo’s triumph was a proud moment for Ugandan athletics, while the personal-best performances from Kipkorir and Teshager added further quality to a memorable contest on the streets of Bilbao.

The 2026 Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon delivered a spectacular celebration of international distance running on Sunday, October 18, with Kenya dominating the men’s race and Ethiopia claiming victory in the women’s contest.

Kenya’s Charles Mbatha Matata produced the standout performance of the day, storming to victory in a provisional course-record time of 58:52. Meanwhile, Ethiopia’s 19-year-old Wudinesh Alemu Keneni demonstrated remarkable composure to win the women’s race in 1:06:35, holding off a strong Kenyan challenge on the streets of New Delhi, India.

Matata’s triumph was particularly special because it continued a remarkable family story at the prestigious Indian road race. The Kenyan distance runner took control of the men’s contest and crossed the finish line in 58:52, lowering the previous course record of 58:53 set by Ethiopia’s Amedework Walelegn in 2020.

Beyond the record-breaking performance, Matata had another reason to celebrate. His twin brother, Alex Matata, won the same race in 2025, meaning the coveted Delhi title has remained in the family for two consecutive editions.

Different year, same family, and another moment of Kenyan glory. Charles has now joined his twin brother as a Delhi Half Marathon champion, creating a memorable chapter in the event’s history and highlighting the Matata family’s growing legacy in international road racing.

Charles’ achievement was complemented by a commanding Kenyan performance across the men’s field. Samwel Nyamai Mailu secured second place in 59:24, while Stanley Waithaka Mburu completed the podium in 59:33, giving Kenya a clean sweep of the top three positions.

Ethiopia’s Birhanu Legese Gurmesa was the leading non-Kenyan finisher, placing fourth in 1:00:33. He was followed closely by Kenya’s Samwel Chebolei Mosai, who clocked 1:00:34, while Ethiopia’s Negasa Dekeba Bikela completed the top six in 1:00:36.

The men’s race results underlined Kenya’s remarkable depth in distance running, with three athletes occupying the leading positions and Matata adding a course record to an already memorable victory.

In the women’s competition, Ethiopia’s Wudinesh Alemu Keneni emerged as the day’s champion, delivering an impressive performance to win in 1:06:35 at just 19 years old.

Alemu’s victory was a significant achievement for the young Ethiopian, who faced a competitive international field featuring several accomplished Kenyan athletes. Her ability to maintain her advantage and secure the title highlighted her considerable promise as one of the emerging talents in women’s distance running.

Kenya’s Selah Jepleting Busienei finished second in 1:07:01, while compatriot Cynthia Chelangat Chepkwony claimed third place in 1:07:32. Their performances secured Kenya two places on the women’s podium, although Alemu proved strongest on the day.

The battle for the remaining positions was equally competitive. Irene Chepet Cheptai finished fourth in 1:07:33, just one second behind Chepkwony, while Maryam Lufti Njoki placed fifth in 1:08:12. Ethiopia’s Meselech Alemayehu Gedefaw completed the top six in 1:09:04.

The leading finishers in the men’s race were Charles Mbatha Matata of Kenya in 58:52, Samwel Nyamai Mailu of Kenya in 59:24, Stanley Waithaka Mburu of Kenya in 59:33, Birhanu Legese Gurmesa of Ethiopia in 1:00:33, Samwel Chebolei Mosai of Kenya in 1:00:34, and Negasa Dekeba Bikela of Ethiopia in 1:00:36.

In the women’s race, Wudinesh Alemu Keneni of Ethiopia won in 1:06:35, followed by Selah Jepleting Busienei of Kenya in 1:07:01, Cynthia Chelangat Chepkwony of Kenya in 1:07:32, Irene Chepet Cheptai of Kenya in 1:07:33, Maryam Lufti Njoki of Kenya in 1:08:12, and Meselech Alemayehu Gedefaw of Ethiopia in 1:09:04.

The Delhi Half Marathon once again demonstrated why it remains an important fixture on the international road-racing calendar, bringing together established performers and emerging talents for a compelling day of competition.

For Charles Matata, the victory was about more than individual success. By following in the footsteps of his twin brother Alex, he ensured that the Delhi crown remained in the family while delivering a provisional course record and leading Kenya to a complete sweep of the men’s podium.

For Alemu, winning at just 19 represents a promising milestone in what could become an exciting distance-running career. Her triumph showed that Ethiopia’s next generation continues to emerge strongly on the international stage.

Together, their performances made the 2026 edition a memorable occasion, celebrating Kenyan dominance, Ethiopian excellence, family achievement and the continuing appeal of elite half-marathon racing.

The elite start lists for the 2026 Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon have been unveiled, setting the stage for a compelling contest featuring some of the strongest distance runners from Kenya, Ethiopia and beyond.

Scheduled for October 18, the prestigious Indian road race has assembled a formidable international field, with established champions, proven half-marathon performers and ambitious debutants all preparing to take on the streets of New Delhi.

The men's race promises an intriguing showdown, led by Ethiopian star Birhanu Legese, whose personal best of 58:59 makes him one of the leading names on the entry list. Kenya's Samwel Chebolei Masai boasts an even faster personal best of 58:48, while compatriots Charles Mbatha Matata, Samwel Mailu and Robert Kiprop Koech bring impressive credentials, with personal bests of 59:15, 59:19 and 59:51 respectively.

The Kenyan challenge is particularly deep, with Samwel Chebolei Masai, Charles Mbatha Matata, Samwel Mailu, Robert Kiprop Koech, Jamal Kiprono, Peter Tuitoek and Stanley Waithaka among the athletes capable of making the contest highly competitive. Ethiopia will also be represented by Tesfaye Deriba, Melaku Belachew, Kasu Tsegaye and other experienced runners, while Tanzania's Daniel Sinda and Morocco's Abderrahmane Aferdi add further international depth to the men's field.

Attention will also be on Kenyan debutant Benson Kiplangat and Ethiopian newcomer Daniel Zewudu Bekele, both listed without a personal best. Their inclusion adds an element of uncertainty, as they prepare to test themselves against established performers on one of the world's prominent half-marathon stages.

The women's race is equally compelling, with Kenya's Irine Chepet Cheptai heading the entry list by personal best, having clocked 1:04:53. Her compatriot Cynthia Jerotich Limo follows with 1:06:04, narrowly ahead of Israel's Lonah Chemtai Salpeter, whose personal best stands at 1:06:09.

Kenya's Cynthia Chepkwony, with a personal best of 1:06:49, further strengthens the country's challenge, while Ethiopia brings a formidable group led by Asmarech Anley, who has run 1:07:01. Melal Siyoum Biratu, Sewareg Haymanot, Wudinesh Alemu and Kiros Muaz are among the other Ethiopian athletes expected to contribute to the depth of the women's contest.

The Kenyan women's contingent also includes Orba Chemurgor, Caren Chebet and Selah Buseinei, while Christine Njoki Nalimo and Beatrice Chepkoech are listed for their half-marathon debuts. Ethiopia's debutants include Silnat Bitwe, Wubrist Aschal and Worknesh Yehualaw, creating further intrigue around how the newcomers will perform against more experienced opposition.

With established names boasting personal bests around the 59-minute mark in the men's race and the 64-minute range in the women's contest, the stage is set for a high-quality display of endurance and tactical racing. However, personal bests alone will not determine the outcome, with race-day conditions, pacing and tactical decisions likely to play crucial roles.

The Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon continues to attract leading international distance runners, bringing together athletes from different nations in a race where reputation must ultimately be matched by performance.

On October 18, the focus will shift from the names on the start lists to the athletes on the road, as Kenya and Ethiopia renew their rivalry in pursuit of victory in New Delhi.

Kenyan marathon star Hellen Obiri is set to return to the streets of New York City on November 1, 2026, determined to defend her title at the TCS New York City Marathon and strengthen her place among the greatest women ever to grace the 26.2-mile distance.

The two-time Olympic bronze medallist produced a remarkable performance in 2025, winning in 2:19:51 and breaking the women's course record that had stood for 22 years. Her victory underlined her exceptional ability to combine speed, strength and tactical intelligence on one of the world's most demanding marathon courses.

Now, Obiri returns to a city where she has already established herself as a formidable force, carrying the pressure that comes with being the defending champion and the opportunity to achieve another historic milestone.

A third New York City Marathon victory would place the Kenyan among an elite group of women who have won the prestigious race three times, alongside legendary champions Grete Waitz, Mary Keitany and Paula Radcliffe. Such an achievement would further enhance a career that has already brought her Olympic medals, world titles and major marathon victories.

However, another triumph will not come easily. The women's field features several accomplished international athletes, each bringing a different set of strengths and ambitions to the race.

Fellow Kenyan Sheila Chepkirui will be among the leading challengers. The 2024 New York City Marathon champion returns with a personal best of 2:17:29, giving her the credentials to mount a serious challenge. Having already demonstrated that she can master the city's demanding course, Chepkirui will be eager to reclaim the title.

Ethiopian star Gotytom Gebreslase also adds considerable quality to the lineup. The 2022 world marathon champion owns a personal best of 2:18:11 and has the championship experience required to compete at the highest level. Her presence adds another layer of intrigue to a contest that could develop into a fierce battle among some of the world's leading marathon runners.

Kenya's Edna Kiplagat brings a wealth of experience to the field. A former world champion with an outstanding record on the international stage, the veteran remains a respected competitor whose patience and tactical awareness could prove valuable if the race develops into a closely contested affair.

Great Britain's Julia Paternain will also attract attention following her bronze-medal performance at the 2025 World Athletics Championships. Her championship credentials make her an interesting addition to a field in which experience, endurance and the ability to respond under pressure could determine the final outcome.

American hopes will be led by athletes including Weini Kelati and Jess McClain. Kelati is preparing to make her marathon debut after establishing herself among the leading American distance runners, while McClain will be looking to make her presence felt against a strong international opposition on home soil.

Beyond these prominent names, the depth of the women's lineup promises a competitive contest, with additional athletes hoping to upset the established favourites and seize their opportunity on one of marathon running's biggest stages.

The race will, however, proceed without two notable names. Dutch star Sifan Hassan and American Fiona O'Keeffe have withdrawn, removing two highly anticipated competitors from the women's contest.

Even with their absence, the defending champion faces a formidable challenge. New York's bridges, rolling terrain and late-race demands often reward runners who can manage their effort carefully and deliver when the decisive moments arrive.

For Obiri, the mission is clear: defend her crown, preserve her course record and move one victory closer to an exclusive place in the race's history. For Chepkirui, Gebreslase and the rest of the field, the objective is to prevent the Kenyan star from turning another appearance in New York into a celebration of her growing marathon legacy.

When the world's leading women line up on November 1, the spotlight will once again fall on Obiri. Yet the New York City Marathon rarely follows a predictable script, and the strength of this field suggests that the defending champion will have to earn every metre of her title defence.

One thing is certain: the battle for women's marathon supremacy in New York promises to deliver a compelling contest, with history within Obiri's reach and a determined group of challengers ready to stand in her way.

The 2026 Mainova Frankfurt Marathon is shaping up to be one of the most compelling races of the autumn, with German distance-running star Amanal Petros leading an exceptionally strong men’s field assembled for the October 25 showdown.

Organisers are preparing for what they describe as the fastest men’s elite field in the event’s 43-year history, raising expectations of an exciting contest on Frankfurt’s renowned fast course. At the centre of the attention is Petros, the reigning European marathon champion, whose pursuit of the continental record has become one of the major storylines surrounding this year’s race.

Petros enters the competition with a personal best of 2:04:03, placing him just 27 seconds outside Bashir Abdi’s European record of 2:03:36. The German star has made no secret of his ambition to challenge that mark, and Frankfurt offers him an opportunity to pursue it on familiar territory, backed by home support and a race environment designed for fast times.

The course’s reputation for speed makes it an attractive setting for such an attempt. However, translating ambition into a record-breaking performance will require more than favourable conditions. Petros will need to maintain exceptional pace over all 42.195 kilometres, manage the demands of the race intelligently and find the strength to deliver when fatigue inevitably begins to take hold in the closing stages.

His challenge will be supported by a deep international field featuring elite runners from Kenya and Ethiopia, with pacemakers expected to help establish the demanding rhythm required for a serious assault on the clock. The depth of the lineup promises a race in which the leading athletes could push one another towards outstanding performances rather than allowing the contest to become a solitary pursuit of time.

For Petros, the significance of the occasion extends beyond winning another marathon. A successful attempt on the European record would strengthen his position among the continent’s leading distance runners and add another important chapter to German marathon history. Breaking the 2:04 barrier would also represent a major milestone, placing him among a select group of athletes capable of sustaining such extraordinary speed over the marathon distance.

Yet the presence of a formidable supporting cast means that Frankfurt’s men’s race should not be viewed exclusively through the lens of Petros’s record ambitions. The Kenyan and Ethiopian athletes arriving with ambitions of their own could turn the contest into a fiercely competitive battle, particularly if several runners remain together deep into the race. Their performances could prove decisive in determining whether the event produces not only a memorable winner but also a series of personal bests.

Meanwhile, the women’s race has received a welcome boost with the expected participation of Meskerem Assefa, the 2018 Frankfurt Marathon champion. After uncertainty surrounding a visa delay, the Ethiopian runner has reportedly resolved the issue and is set to return to a course on which she has already demonstrated her winning ability.

Assefa’s return adds valuable experience and familiarity to the women’s elite lineup. Former champions often approach a course with a different level of confidence, having already experienced its demands and discovered what it takes to succeed there. Her presence should therefore add another interesting dimension to a women’s race that organisers have been strengthening ahead of the event.

Although Frankfurt operates in the shadow of more globally celebrated marathons such as Berlin and London, its reputation as a venue for fast performances gives it a distinctive place on the international calendar. The combination of a record-focused men's field, experienced women’s contenders and a course suited to ambitious pacing has created a compelling narrative for this year’s edition.

Ultimately, the stopwatch will determine whether the pre-race expectations are justified. Petros must still negotiate the physical and tactical challenges of the marathon, while his rivals will be equally determined to seize their own opportunities. A fast field can create the conditions for history, but only exceptional execution can turn that potential into reality.

On October 25, Frankfurt will offer Petros the chance to transform a long-held ambition into a landmark achievement. Whether he reaches the European record or falls short, his pursuit of that standard will be one of the defining stories of the race—and a reminder of how relentlessly the world’s best marathoners continue to push the limits of human endurance.

The TCS Amsterdam Marathon is set for an exciting showdown on Sunday, 18 October, with an outstanding international field preparing to challenge the course records, pursue personal bests and compete for victory on one of Europe’s most prestigious marathon stages.

The 2026 edition promises compelling competition in both the men’s and women’s races. Kenya and Ethiopia will feature prominently among the leading contenders, with experienced champions, emerging talents and athletes making their marathon debuts all bringing ambitious targets to Amsterdam.

In the men’s race, defending champion Geofry Toroitich Kipchumba returns with the course record firmly in his sights after producing a remarkable performance last year.

Kipchumba stormed to victory in 2:03:30 at the 50th edition of the race, establishing a new Amsterdam course record and the fastest marathon time ever recorded on Dutch soil. His return offers an opportunity to improve on that achievement, although a formidable field stands between him and another memorable victory.

The Kenyan is not the only athlete arriving with the potential to challenge the record. Ethiopia’s Haymanot Alew has a marathon personal best of 2:03:31, recorded in Berlin, leaving him just one second outside the existing course record. The 2026 Egmond Half Marathon winner will be among the athletes hoping to turn that narrow gap into history on Amsterdam’s streets.

Another major contender is Ethiopia’s Tsegaye Getachew, a two-time Amsterdam champion who won the race in 2022 and 2024 before finishing second in 2025 with a personal best of 2:04:18. His familiarity with the course and previous success make him an important presence in a race expected to feature an intense battle among the leading men.

The depth of the field is underlined by the presence of 10 athletes who have recorded marathon times below 2:05, according to the race organisers. With several runners capable of sustaining an exceptional pace, the contest could develop into a demanding tactical battle in which positioning, endurance and the ability to respond to late-race attacks will prove decisive.

Kenya’s Isaia Kipkoech Lasoi is another athlete attracting attention ahead of the race, although his challenge comes with a different question. The half-marathon specialist will make his marathon debut after establishing an impressive personal best of 58:10 over 21.0975 kilometres.

His speed over the half-marathon distance provides an intriguing indication of his potential, but the full marathon presents an entirely different test. How effectively he manages his energy beyond the halfway point and adapts to the demands of 42.195 kilometres will be among the most interesting aspects of his first appearance at the distance.

While the men prepare to attack the 2:03:30 course record, the women’s race has its own compelling storyline, with four Ethiopian athletes arriving with personal bests faster than 2:20.

Aynalem Desta, the defending champion, returns after winning last year’s 50th edition in a personal best of 2:17:37. Her familiarity with the course and experience of winning in Amsterdam place her among the leading contenders as she seeks to defend her title.

However, Desta faces a formidable challenge from compatriot Meseret Belete Tola, the 2023 Amsterdam champion, whose personal best stands at 2:18:21. Belete’s previous success in the Dutch capital adds another layer of intrigue to a race featuring multiple athletes with the credentials to contend for victory.

Ethiopia’s Mestawut Fikir Truneh also brings considerable experience and a strong personal best of 2:18:48, recorded when she finished second at the 2024 Berlin Marathon. Meanwhile, compatriot Buze Diriba arrives with a best of 2:19:34, ensuring that the Ethiopian challenge extends well beyond the two former Amsterdam champions.

The international depth continues with Bahrain’s Desi Jisa Mokonin, Ethiopia’s Yeshi Kalayu Chekole and Eritrea’s Nazret Weldu Gebrehiwet, all of whom have recorded performances close to the two-hour-and-20-minute barrier.

Sweden’s Abeba Aregawi, a former world champion over 1,500 metres, adds another fascinating dimension to the contest. Aregawi set a Swedish marathon record of 2:23:12 on her debut earlier this year and will now face another major test as she continues her transition from track running to the marathon.

With the women’s course record standing at 2:16:52, the question is whether the leading contenders can produce the performance required to challenge it. Desta’s personal best of 2:17:37 already places her within striking distance, while Belete, Fikir and Diriba will be looking to turn their own ambitions into competitive results.

Beyond the elite fields, the athletes’ comments at the pre-race press conference have provided a glimpse into the different approaches they will bring to Sunday’s contest.

Kenya’s Nicholas Kipkorir expressed confidence in his return to Amsterdam, describing the city as a second home and believing that his familiarity with the environment could help him deliver his best performance.

“I love Amsterdam. It feels like my second home, and I know that will help me run my best time,” Kipkorir said.

His compatriot Geofry Kipchumba has set his sights on achieving another personal best while also fighting for victory. His ambition reflects the competitive spirit surrounding the men’s race, where the defending champion and several challengers are expected to target fast times.

“I’m going for another personal best and the win,” Kipchumba said.

Ethiopia’s Aynalem Desta is equally determined to build on her previous success in Amsterdam. Having won last year’s race in a personal best of 2:17:37, she will be aiming to deliver another strong performance against a deep women’s field.

“I love the TCS Amsterdam Marathon. I’m happy with the race I ran here last year, and I want to perform even better this year,” Desta explained.

Fellow Ethiopian Mestawut Fikir Truneh emphasised the importance of patience and perseverance, qualities that often determine the outcome of a marathon when fatigue begins to affect even the strongest runners.

“A marathon requires patience. You must not give up hope until the very last moment. Keep going and never give up,” Fikir said.

Among the Dutch athletes, Mikky Keetels has established a clear objective: breaking the two-hour-and-30-minute barrier, with hopes of going even faster if conditions allow.

“I really want to run under 2:30, and secretly maybe even a little faster,” Keetels revealed.

Fellow Dutch runner Noah Schutte is concentrating on the closing stages of the race, when maintaining pace and fighting through fatigue can make the difference between achieving a target and falling short.

“I especially want to give everything in the final kilometres and keep fighting,” Schutte said.

For Khalid Choukoud, the race presents an opportunity to improve his personal best while continuing to demonstrate his competitiveness at the age of 40. Breaking 2:10 would represent a particularly significant achievement for the experienced Dutch marathoner.

“It would be great to improve my personal best. But if I run under 2:10 at the age of 40, that would be a great achievement too,” Choukoud said.

All these ambitions will converge on Sunday, when the athletes take on the streets of Amsterdam before finishing inside the iconic Olympic Stadium.

The defending champions will be under pressure to retain their titles, record holders will be challenged by determined rivals, and debutants will have the opportunity to discover what they can achieve over the full marathon distance.

For Kipchumba, the immediate target is to defend his crown and potentially lower the 2:03:30 course record. For Alew, it is an opportunity to bridge the one-second gap separating his personal best from the mark. Getachew will be seeking another victory, while Lasoi faces the challenge of translating his exceptional half-marathon speed into marathon success.

In the women’s race, Desta will attempt to defend her title against a field featuring former champions, major-marathon performers and several athletes capable of producing personal bests. With the 2:16:52 course record in sight, the leading women could also make a serious attempt to rewrite the record books.

One start line will unite these athletes, but their objectives are different. Some are pursuing victory, others are targeting personal records, and a select few have their sights set on history.

When the gun fires on 18 October, the preparation will be over and the real test will begin. Amsterdam is ready for a day of world-class marathon racing, with the possibility of new records adding even greater anticipation to an already compelling contest.

The 43rd Mainova Frankfurt Marathon is set for a fast edition on October 25, with the deepest men’s field in race history and the return of 2018 women’s champion Meskerem Assefa.

For the first time, four men on the start list have personal bests under 2:05, with another four having broken 2:07. German record-holder Amanal Petros leads the field at 2:04:03, setting up a showdown featuring three of Germany’s leading marathoners.

The women’s race also promises strong competition. Five entrants have run under 2:22, making it the second-deepest women’s field in Frankfurt history by that measure, behind only the 2025 edition, which featured six.

“Overall this is surely the fastest elite field we have ever assembled for the Mainova Frankfurt Marathon. I am very pleased that the German men are playing a major role and I expect a thrilling top-class race,” said Jo Schindler, who is in his 25th year as race director.

German Stars Lead the Men’s Challenge

European champion Petros tops the entry list, but the competition is close. Ethiopia’s Andualem Belay brings a personal best of 2:04:44, followed by Germany’s Samuel Fitwi at 2:04:45 and Richard Ringer at 2:04:47.

With just 44 seconds separating the personal bests of the four fastest entrants, the race offers the prospect of a competitive battle at the front.

Kenya’s Benard Biwott, who has run 2:05:25, leads the next group of contenders. Israel’s Haimro Alame and Ethiopians Antenayehu Dagnachew and Jiregna Geleta round out the eight men with personal bests under 2:07.

Assefa Returns to Face Yimer and Saina

Meskerem Assefa’s return adds a former champion to an already strong women’s field. Her participation had been uncertain because of visa requirements, but organizers have now secured the visa needed for her trip to Germany.

The Ethiopian’s personal best of 2:20:36 makes her the third-fastest entrant, behind compatriot Zeineba Yimer at 2:18:47 and American Betsy Saina at 2:19:17.

Ethiopia’s Siranesh Yirga and Kenya’s Marion Kibor complete the group of five women who have broken 2:22.

There was disappointing news for another former champion: Ethiopia’s Buzunesh Getachew, the 2023 Frankfurt winner, has withdrawn because of injury. 

German interest will also focus on Blanka Dörfel, who is scheduled to make her marathon debut.

Elite Runners with Personal Bests

MEN

Amanal Petros GER 2:04:03

Andualem Belay ETH 2:04:44

Samuel Fitwi GER 2:04:45

Richard Ringer GER 2:04:47

Benard Biwott KEN 2:05:25

Haimro Alame ISR 2:06:04

Antenayehu Dagnachew ETH 2:06:55

Jiregna Geleta ETH 2:06:57

Derara Hurisa ETH 2:08:09

Jirata Dinki ETH 2:08:18

Abe Gashahun ETH 2:08:35

Lemawork Ketema AUT 2:10:44

WOMEN

Zeineba Yimer ETH 2:18:47

Betsy Saina USA 2:19:17

Meskerem Assefa ETH 2:20:36

Siranesh Yirga ETH 2:21:08

Marion Kibor KEN 2:21:12

Janet Ruguru KEN 2:23:00

Mehret Gemeda ETH 2:23:29

Milicent Jelimo KEN 2:24:19

Obse Abdeta ETH 2:27:14

Martina Strähl SUI 2:28:07

Selam Fente ETH 2:28:22

Aselef Amare ETH 2:28:47

Blanka Dörfel GER Debut

Ugandan distance-running star Jacob Kiplimo has revealed that a hamstring problem disrupted his race at the 2026 Chicago Marathon, forcing him to abandon his ambitions of defending his title and settle for fourth place after a challenging final 12 kilometres.

Kiplimo, who entered the race hoping to retain his crown, crossed the finish line in 2:04:18 after initially making encouraging progress through the opening stages. However, his challenge took an unexpected turn around the 30-kilometre mark when he began experiencing discomfort in his hamstring, transforming what had been a promising outing into a difficult test of endurance and determination.

In a statement reflecting on his performance, the Ugandan star explained that his body had been responding well until the problem emerged. The setback significantly changed the nature of his race, leaving him to fight through the remaining distance rather than pursue the victory he had targeted.

Despite the pain and disappointment, Kiplimo refused to abandon the contest. He battled through the closing kilometres, drawing on his resilience to reach the finish line, although his time was not enough to secure a place on the podium.

“Finishing fourth as the defending champion is not the result I came to Chicago for,” Kiplimo acknowledged, while emphasising the determination required to complete the race after his hamstring problem developed.

The race was ultimately won by Kenya’s Amos Kipruto, who delivered an impressive performance to claim victory in 2:01:09. Ethiopia’s Tadese Bikila finished second in 2:02:56, followed by compatriot Milkesa Mengesha, who secured third place in 2:03:46. Kiplimo completed the top four in 2:04:18.

For the Ugandan star, the immediate priority is now recovery rather than competition. He indicated that he intends to take time away from the demands of professional racing, focus on his rehabilitation and enjoy valuable moments with his family before returning to training and competition.

“This is not the end of the story,” Kiplimo declared, striking a determined tone despite the setback. He added that he would allow himself time to recover before returning to work, expressing confidence that he and his team would come back stronger and be prepared for the next challenge.

Although missing out on the title was undoubtedly disappointing, Kiplimo’s response underlines his determination to move forward rather than allow one difficult race to define his season. His recovery will now be an important factor in determining when he can resume full training and prepare for his next competitive assignment.

For a runner accustomed to competing at the highest level of international distance running, the Chicago experience serves as a reminder of how quickly circumstances can change in a marathon. Kiplimo’s immediate challenge is to address the hamstring problem, regain his fitness and return to competition when he is ready.

His message, however, leaves little doubt about his mindset: Chicago was a setback, not a farewell. The Ugandan star is determined to recover, rebuild and return to the start line ready to challenge once again.

Seven years after Eliud Kipchoge challenged the limits of human endurance in Vienna, fellow Kenyan Sabastian Sawe has transformed that extraordinary vision into a landmark achievement in competitive marathon running, becoming the first man to complete the 42.195-kilometre distance in under two hours under record-eligible race conditions.

On October 12, 2019, Kipchoge etched his name into sporting history when he completed the INEOS 1:59 Challenge in Vienna, Austria, in an astonishing 1:59:40.2. Although the performance could not be recognised as an official world record because of the controlled conditions under which it was staged, it demonstrated that the seemingly impossible barrier was within human reach.

Kipchoge’s achievement carried a powerful message that resonated far beyond athletics: “No human is limited.” His words became a symbol of determination, ambition and the courage to challenge established boundaries.

However, the dream of breaking two hours in an official marathon remained unfinished.

That changed on April 26, 2026, when Sawe delivered a breathtaking performance at the TCS London Marathon, stopping the clock at 1:59:30 to claim victory and establish a new men's marathon world record. The Kenyan took an astonishing 65 seconds off the previous record of 2:00:35, set by the late Kelvin Kiptum at the 2023 Chicago Marathon.

Sawe’s achievement was historic not simply because he ran faster than Kipchoge’s celebrated Vienna time, but because he accomplished the feat in an official, competitive marathon eligible for world-record recognition. The distinction elevated his performance into an entirely new chapter of distance-running history.

Remarkably, Sawe was not the only athlete to challenge the two-hour barrier that day. Ethiopia’s Yomif Kejelcha finished second in 1:59:41, becoming the second man to run under two hours in a competitive marathon. Uganda’s Jacob Kiplimo completed the podium in 2:00:28, also finishing inside Kiptum’s previous world record.

The extraordinary results underlined how dramatically the boundaries of marathon running have shifted in a sport where even a few seconds can separate an athlete from immortality.

For Kenya, Sawe’s triumph represents another defining moment in a remarkable tradition of distance-running excellence. From the groundbreaking achievements of Kipchoge to Kiptum’s world-record performance and now Sawe’s sub-two-hour marathon, Kenyan athletes have continued to shape the evolution of the sport.

Yet the connection between Kipchoge and Sawe goes beyond nationality. Kipchoge demonstrated that the marathon distance could be covered in less than two hours under specially controlled conditions. Sawe carried that vision into open competition, where the challenge had to be conquered within the demands of an official race.

Their achievements tell a compelling story of how sporting dreams can inspire future generations to pursue what once appeared unattainable.

On October 12, 2026, exactly seven years after Kipchoge’s landmark run in Vienna, the anniversary offers a powerful opportunity to reflect on how far marathon running has progressed. What began as a demonstration of human potential has become an officially recognised world-record achievement.

Kipchoge opened the door to a new era of possibility. Sawe ran through it and changed marathon history forever.

One dream. Two Kenyan legends. A new definition of human endurance.

The message remains as powerful as ever: No human is limited.

Amos Kipruto delivered a sensational performance at the 2026 Bank of America Chicago Marathon, storming to victory in 2:01:09 and securing his place among the fastest marathon runners in history.

The Kenyan distance star produced a remarkable display of endurance, speed and determination to conquer the streets of Chicago, adding another prestigious title to his impressive career. His winning time ranks joint fifth on the all-time list of the fastest performances recorded at the Abbott World Marathon Majors, matching the 2:01:09 achieved by fellow Kenyan Eliud Kipchoge at the 2022 Berlin Marathon.

Kipruto's performance was particularly significant because it came in an era when the men's marathon world record has entered previously unimaginable territory. Kenya's Sabastian Sawe currently holds the official world record of 1:59:30, set at the 2026 London Marathon, where he became the first man to complete a record-eligible marathon in under two hours.

Sawe's historic achievement surpassed the previous world record of 2:00:35, set by the late Kelvin Kiptum at the 2023 Chicago Marathon. Kiptum's performance had represented a major breakthrough for marathon running before Sawe pushed the boundaries even further with his extraordinary sub-two-hour performance in London.

Behind Sawe on the updated all-time list are Ethiopia's Yomif Kejelcha, who ran 1:59:41 in London, and Uganda's Jacob Kiplimo, who clocked 2:00:28 at the same race. Kiptum's 2:00:35 remains one of the greatest performances in marathon history, while Kipruto's 2:01:09 now places him alongside Kipchoge's former world-record mark.

Kipruto's Chicago victory was the culmination of three consecutive years of progress at the prestigious race. He finished third in 2024, improved to second in 2025 and finally climbed to the top of the podium in 2026. After coming close on his previous two appearances, he turned his persistence into a memorable triumph.

The experienced Kenyan had already established himself as a formidable competitor on the international marathon circuit, winning the London Marathon in 2022. His Chicago triumph marked another major achievement in a career built on consistency, resilience and the ability to compete against the world's strongest distance runners.

His winning time also improved on the 2:01:39 he recorded at the 2026 London Marathon, representing a 30-second personal-best improvement. That progress underlined his continued development at the highest level and demonstrated his ability to deliver outstanding performances on the sport's biggest stages.

Kipruto's achievement further highlighted Kenya's enduring influence on international marathon running. From Kipchoge's historic world-record performances to Kiptum's extraordinary speed and Sawe's groundbreaking sub-two-hour run, Kenyan athletes have repeatedly redefined the limits of what is possible over 42.195 kilometres.

For Kipruto, however, the spotlight belonged to a runner whose determination finally brought him the Chicago crown after two consecutive podium finishes. His 2:01:09 victory not only secured a prestigious title but also placed him among the elite performers who have helped shape the modern marathon era.

With a new personal best, a long-awaited Chicago victory and a place among the fastest marathon major performances ever recorded, Kipruto has delivered a landmark performance in his career. His triumph adds another memorable chapter to Kenya's rich marathon history, while the world-record progression led by Sawe continues to push the sport into a remarkable new era.

Uganda’s Jacob Kiplimo suffered a disappointing end to his title defence at the 2026 Chicago Marathon on Sunday, October 11, finishing fourth in 2:04:18 after fading in the closing stages of a race that had initially promised another memorable performance.

The former champion started confidently, matching the relentless pace of Kenya’s Amos Kipruto as the leading contenders battled for control. For much of the race, Kiplimo remained firmly in contention, looking capable of mounting a serious challenge for another victory on the streets of Chicago.

However, the contest took a dramatic turn around the 32-kilometre mark when Kipruto increased the pressure and began to pull away. Kiplimo struggled to respond as the race entered its decisive phase, with the demanding final kilometres gradually taking their toll on the Ugandan star.

His difficulties deepened as Ethiopia’s Tadese Bikila and Milkesa Mengesha moved ahead of him. Bikila secured second place in 2:02:56, while Mengesha followed in third in 2:03:46, leaving Kiplimo to settle for fourth in 2:04:18.

While the defending champion endured a difficult afternoon, Kipruto delivered the performance of his marathon career, powering to victory in a stunning personal best of 2:01:09. The Kenyan secured his first Chicago Marathon title with an outstanding display of strength and tactical composure, producing one of the fastest performances in the history of the prestigious race.

For Kiplimo, the result marked a significant departure from the consistency that has defined his remarkable career on the roads. Known for his extraordinary endurance, speed and ability to compete against the world's best, the Ugandan has built a reputation as one of the leading distance runners of his generation.

Chicago, however, proved that even the most accomplished athletes can encounter difficult days when the marathon becomes a battle of survival rather than a pursuit of victory.

Despite the disappointment, Kiplimo’s fourth-place finish does not diminish his achievements or his status among the sport’s elite. Instead, it offers a reminder of the unforgiving nature of the 42.195-kilometre distance, where early strength does not always guarantee a strong finish.

For a runner who arrived in Chicago hoping to defend his crown, the outcome will undoubtedly hurt. Yet the experience could also provide valuable lessons as he looks towards his next challenge.

In marathon running, fortunes can change in a matter of kilometres. On Sunday, Kipruto seized his moment and celebrated a career-defining triumph, while Kiplimo was left to confront the difficult reality that even champions sometimes have to accept defeat.

Ethiopia’s Hawi Feysa produced a magnificent performance to defend her women’s title at the 2026 Chicago Marathon, crossing the finish line in 2:13:33 to secure her second consecutive victory in one of the world’s most prestigious marathon races.

Feysa delivered an outstanding performance to overcome a highly competitive international field, demonstrating the endurance, composure and determination required to triumph on the global stage. Her victory further strengthened Ethiopia’s reputation as one of the leading nations in long-distance running and confirmed her status as one of the most formidable athletes in women’s marathon racing.

The Ethiopian star’s winning time of 2:13:33 was a personal best, marking a significant improvement on her previous performances. The result also elevated her to fifth on the women’s marathon all-time list, underlining the exceptional quality of her run and placing her among the fastest women ever to compete over the classic 42.195-kilometre distance.

Returning to Chicago as the defending champion brought additional expectations, but Feysa once again rose to the occasion. Successfully retaining a major marathon title requires more than physical strength; it demands tactical awareness, consistency and the ability to handle pressure against some of the world’s best competitors. Feysa demonstrated those qualities to secure another memorable victory on Chicago’s streets.

Kenya’s Sharon Lokedi delivered a strong performance to finish second in 2:14:07, continuing her impressive presence among the world’s elite marathon runners. Lokedi mounted a determined challenge but ultimately had to settle for the runner-up position behind the defending champion.

Former women’s marathon world-record holder Brigid Kosgei completed the podium in 2:14:54, giving Kenya two athletes among the top three. Her performance further highlighted the country’s remarkable depth in women’s distance running, even as Ethiopia celebrated another major international marathon victory.

Feysa’s latest triumph marks a significant improvement on her 2025 winning performance of 2:14:57, as she returned to Chicago with greater determination and delivered a personal best of 2:13:33. The 27-year-old Ethiopian showcased her remarkable endurance and consistency, proving that her previous victory was no fluke. By successfully defending her crown, she has further strengthened her position among the world’s leading female marathon runners.

Her winning margin of 34 seconds over Kenya’s Sharon Lokedi, who finished second in 2:14:07, underlined the quality of Feysa’s performance. The result also propelled her to fourth on the women’s marathon all-time list, according to the supplied race information, placing her among the fastest women ever over the 42.195km distance. With consecutive Chicago Marathon titles to her name, Feysa has delivered a statement performance that further elevates Ethiopia’s proud tradition of distance-running excellence.

Kenya’s Mary Ngugi Cooper secured fourth place in 2:17:23, followed by compatriot Joan Kilimo, who finished fifth in 2:18:38. The strong Kenyan representation among the leading finishers underlined the country’s continued influence in elite marathon competition and ensured that the battle for the top positions remained highly competitive.

Australia’s Isobel Batt-Doyle finished sixth in 2:20:38, narrowly ahead of American Emma Grace Hurley, who recorded 2:20:47 for seventh place. Ethiopia’s Degitu Azimeraw finished eighth in 2:20:59, while Kenya’s Magdalayne Masai took ninth in 2:21:11. Fellow Kenyan Loice Chemnung completed the top 10 in 2:21:18.

TOP 10 WOMEN’S RESULTS — 2026 CHICAGO MARATHON

1. Hawi Feysa (Ethiopia) — 2:13:33

2. Sharon Lokedi (Kenya) — 2:14:07

3. Brigid Kosgei (Kenya) — 2:14:54

4. Mary Ngugi Cooper (Kenya) — 2:17:23

5. Joan Kilimo (Kenya) — 2:18:38

6. Isobel Batt-Doyle (Australia) — 2:20:38

7. Emma Grace Hurley (United States) — 2:20:47

8. Degitu Azimeraw (Ethiopia) — 2:20:59

9. Magdalayne Masai (Kenya) — 2:21:11

10. Loice Chemnung (Kenya) — 2:21:18

Feysa’s consecutive Chicago victories represent a significant achievement in her career and add another chapter to Ethiopia’s rich history of marathon excellence. Her latest triumph demonstrates that her previous success was no isolated achievement, as she returned to the same course and delivered an even faster performance to retain her crown.

The 2026 Chicago Marathon also attracted considerable international attention, with viewers in Australia, Britain, Ireland and Canada able to watch the race live through FloTrack. Presented by Saucony, the broadcast brought the excitement of the competition to audiences across several countries as the world’s leading marathon runners battled for honours.

With a personal best of 2:13:33, a second consecutive Chicago Marathon title and a place among the five fastest women in marathon history, Feysa has delivered one of the standout performances of the season. Her victory further establishes her as a major force in women’s marathon running, while Lokedi and Kosgei ensured a strong Kenyan presence on the podium.

Kenya’s Amos Kipruto produced a spectacular performance to win the 2026 Chicago Marathon in 2:01:09, setting a personal best by 30 seconds and securing his place among the fastest marathon runners in history. His victory was built on remarkable consistency, endurance and an ability to sustain an extraordinary pace over the full 42.195-kilometre distance.

Kipruto’s winning time ranks as the second-fastest in Chicago Marathon history and places him joint fifth on the world all-time marathon list, matching Eliud Kipchoge’s fastest record-eligible marathon performance. The result underlines the Kenyan star’s exceptional ability and adds another significant achievement to his career on one of the sport’s biggest stages.

The Splits Behind Kipruto’s Remarkable Victory

The intermediate splits reveal how efficiently Kipruto managed his effort throughout the race, maintaining an impressive rhythm before increasing his pace in the middle stages.

He passed the 5-kilometre mark in 14:18, averaging approximately 2:52 per kilometre. At 10 kilometres, he clocked 28:37, demonstrating remarkable consistency as he continued to cover the course at an elite pace.

Kipruto reached the half-marathon point in 1:00:21, averaging approximately 2:52 per kilometre. By then, he had established a strong rhythm, balancing speed with the endurance needed to remain competitive over the second half of the race.

The Kenyan continued to impress, reaching 30 kilometres in 1:25:28. His average pace to that point was approximately 2:51 per kilometre, reflecting his ability to maintain momentum as fatigue began to challenge the field.

Kipruto eventually crossed the finish line in 2:01:09, averaging approximately 2:52 per kilometre across the marathon distance. His performance demonstrated the importance of pacing, efficiency and sustained strength in a race where even the smallest changes in rhythm can have a significant impact on the final result.

Chicago Marathon 2026: Men’s Top 10 Results

The men's elite race featured a strong international field, with Ethiopian athletes claiming three places in the top five and American runners securing two positions in the top 10.

1. Amos Kipruto (Kenya) — 2:01:09

2. Tadesse Takele Bikila (Ethiopia) — 2:02:56

3. Milkesa Mengesha (Ethiopia) — 2:03:46

4. Jacob Kiplimo (Uganda) — 2:04:18

5. Boki Diriba (Ethiopia) — 2:05:01

6. Daniel Mateiko (Kenya) — 2:05:01

7. Clayton Young (United States) — 2:05:23

8. Charles Hicks (United States) — 2:05:35

9. Akira Akasaki (Japan) — 2:05:48

10. Vincent Mauri (United States) — 2:06:46

Kipruto finished 1 minute and 47 seconds ahead of Ethiopia’s Tadesse Takele Bikila, who took second place in 2:02:56. Milkesa Mengesha completed the podium in 2:03:46, giving Ethiopia two athletes among the first three finishers.

Uganda’s Jacob Kiplimo finished fourth in 2:04:18, ahead of Ethiopia’s Boki Diriba and Kenya’s Daniel Mateiko, who both recorded 2:05:01. American runners Clayton Young and Charles Hicks placed seventh and eighth, respectively, while Japan’s Akira Akasaki finished ninth. Vincent Mauri completed the top 10 in 2:06:46.

A Personal Best and a Place Among the Greatest

The 2:01:09 performance represented a 30-second improvement on Kipruto’s previous marathon personal best. More importantly, it elevated him into the upper reaches of the all-time rankings, alongside some of the greatest marathon runners the sport has produced.

Matching Kipchoge’s fastest record-eligible marathon time is a notable milestone, given the former world record-holder’s extraordinary achievements over the distance. Kipruto’s victory also reinforces Kenya’s continued presence at the forefront of elite marathon running.

His Chicago triumph was not simply about crossing the finish line first. It was a demonstration of sustained speed, discipline and endurance, with the splits providing a compelling picture of how he managed the race to produce a career-defining result.

Amos Kipruto’s 2:01:09 victory will stand out as a landmark performance in Chicago, combining a new personal best with one of the fastest marathon times ever recorded. His splits tell the story of a remarkable race, while the top 10 results highlight the depth of international talent assembled for the 2026 edition.

Uganda’s Martin Naibei Musau and Ethiopia’s Meskerem Mamo Hayile emerged as the standout performers at the 2026 EDP Lisbon Marathon, securing victories in the men’s and women’s races on Saturday, October 10, in Portugal.

The two champions delivered impressive performances over the classic 42.195-kilometre distance, while runners from Kenya and Ethiopia featured prominently across both races, producing a competitive day of elite marathon running.

Musau led the men’s field with a commanding performance, crossing the finish line in 2:08:07 to claim the title. The Ugandan’s victory was particularly significant as he improved on his previous personal best of 2:08:42, recorded at the Hamburg Marathon in 2024.

Kenya’s Gilbert Kipkurui finished second in 2:08:33, narrowly ahead of compatriot Stephen Chebon Kipkech, who completed the podium in 2:08:35. Just two seconds separated the two Kenyan athletes, highlighting the intensity of the battle for the remaining podium positions.

Ethiopia’s Desalegn Yilie finished fourth in 2:09:08, followed by Kenya’s Elkana Langat in fifth in 2:09:20. Another Kenyan, Victor Kiplimo, placed sixth in 2:10:34, while Ethiopia’s Abdi Ali Gelchu took seventh in 2:11:11.

Demisu Gemeda secured eighth place in 2:11:29, followed by Kenya’s Zablon Chumba in ninth in 2:12:23. Ethiopia’s Dechasa Nugusa Demsa completed the men’s top 10 with a time of 2:12:53.

2026 EDP Lisbon Marathon – Men’s Top 10 Results

1. Martin Naibei Musau (Uganda) — 2:08:07

2. Gilbert Kipkurui (Kenya) — 2:08:33

3. Stephen Chebon Kipkech (Kenya) — 2:08:35

4. Desalegn Yilie (Ethiopia) — 2:09:08

5. Elkana Langat (Kenya) — 2:09:20

6. Victor Kiplimo (Kenya) — 2:10:34

7. Abdi Ali Gelchu (Ethiopia) — 2:11:11

8. Demisu Gemeda (Ethiopia) — 2:11:29

9. Zablon Chumba (Kenya) — 2:12:23

10. Dechasa Nugusa Demsa (Ethiopia) — 2:12:53

Kenya recorded five athletes inside the top 10, while Ethiopia had four, with Uganda represented by the race winner. The results demonstrated the strength of East African distance running, with Musau producing the decisive performance to finish ahead of his Kenyan challengers.

In the women’s race, Ethiopia’s Meskerem Mamo Hayile delivered another outstanding performance, crossing the finish line in 2:28:04 to secure victory after a closely fought contest among the leading athletes.

Mamo finished just seven seconds ahead of compatriot Tejitu Siyum, who claimed second place in 2:28:11. Bashanke Bilo completed an all-Ethiopian podium, finishing third in 2:28:15 after another strong performance over the marathon distance.

The competition at the front remained intense, with Sintayehu Tilahun taking fourth in 2:28:19 and Abeebech Afework finishing fifth in 2:29:00. The five Ethiopian athletes at the top of the standings underlined the country's considerable depth in women’s marathon running.

Kenya’s Ruth Chebitok was the leading non-Ethiopian finisher, securing sixth place in 2:29:18. Her compatriot Ruth Chepkoech followed in seventh in 2:32:41, while Ethiopia’s Waganesh Endawork Asegie finished eighth in 2:33:00.

Genet Sahle completed the top nine in 2:34:04, giving Ethiopia seven athletes among the first nine finishers.

2026 EDP Lisbon Marathon – Women’s Top Nine Results

1. Meskerem Mamo Hayile (Ethiopia) — 2:28:04

2. Tejitu Siyum (Ethiopia) — 2:28:11

3. Bashanke Bilo (Ethiopia) — 2:28:15

4. Sintayehu Tilahun (Ethiopia) — 2:28:19

5. Abeebech Afework (Ethiopia) — 2:29:00

6. Ruth Chebitok (Kenya) — 2:29:18

7. Ruth Chepkoech (Kenya) — 2:32:41

8. Waganesh Endawork Asegie (Ethiopia) — 2:33:00

9. Genet Sahle (Ethiopia) — 2:34:04

The women’s race was particularly notable for the narrow margins separating the leading contenders. Mamo’s seven-second winning advantage reflected a determined contest at the front, with Siyum and Bilo pushing the eventual champion throughout the race.

The two competitions highlighted different dimensions of marathon racing. Musau established himself as the leading man with a personal-best performance, while Mamo prevailed in a tightly contested women’s race to secure the women’s crown.

The 2026 EDP Lisbon Marathon once again brought together elite distance runners from across East Africa and beyond, with Uganda celebrating a men’s champion and Ethiopia dominating the women’s podium.

The 2026 Lisbon Marathon is set to feature a competitive international field, with Kenyan distance runners leading the men's elite entries and a strong Ethiopian contingent adding depth to the women's race.

Scheduled for October 10 in Lisbon, Portugal, the race will bring together athletes with impressive personal bests, setting the stage for an exciting contest over the classic 42.195-kilometer distance.

Kenya's Jonathan Kiplimo Maiyo headlines the selected men's elite field with a personal best of 2:04:56, placing him among the leading names to watch. He will be joined by compatriot Timothy Kibet Misoi, who has a best of 2:06:07, as Kenya looks to make a strong impression on the Portuguese course.

John Langat and Zablon Chumba complete the selected Kenyan men's lineup, both carrying personal bests of 2:07:11. Their presence adds further strength to a team with considerable experience and proven marathon ability.

The women's race also promises an intriguing battle, with Kenya and Ethiopia represented by four athletes each in the selected elite field.

Kenya's Ruth Chebitok leads the women's entries with a personal best of 2:21:03. She faces a strong Ethiopian challenge led by Sintayehu Tilahun Getahun, whose best stands at 2:22:19.

Ethiopia's Abebech Afework Bekele, with a personal best of 2:23:33, and Worknesh Alemu, who has run 2:24:42, complete the selected women's field. Their presence sets up a potentially compelling contest between two of East Africa's leading distance-running nations.

With established marathon performers on both sides, the Lisbon Marathon offers an opportunity for the elite athletes to test themselves against high-level opposition and pursue strong performances on race day.

While personal bests provide a useful indication of each runner's credentials, the final outcome will depend on race-day conditions, pacing and execution over the demanding marathon distance.

With the selected elite fields featuring a strong Kenyan presence and determined Ethiopian challengers, attention will turn to Lisbon on October 10 as the athletes prepare for one of Portugal's major road-running events.

Two-time Boston Marathon champion Sharon Lokedi is entering the final phase of her preparations for what promises to be a highly anticipated Chicago Marathon debut on Sunday, October 11.

The Kenyan star has completed her demanding training blocks and has now turned her attention to tapering, allowing her body to recover and sharpen ahead of one of the biggest marathon showdowns of the year.

Lokedi will lead an impressive Kenyan women’s contingent in Chicago, bringing together a mixture of proven champions and elite marathon talent. Among those joining her are former world-record holder Brigid Kosgei, Brillian Kipkoech and Loice Chemnung, the runner-up at the 2026 Boston Marathon.

For Lokedi, Chicago represents another major opportunity to strengthen her reputation on the world marathon stage. After establishing herself as a two-time Boston champion, the Kenyan will now take on the famously fast streets of Chicago, where a deep international field is expected to produce an exceptionally competitive race.

However, the Kenyan challenge will face formidable opposition from Ethiopia, led by defending champion Hawi Feysa. The Ethiopian contingent arrives with considerable depth, setting the stage for another compelling Kenya-versus-Ethiopia battle over 42.195 kilometres.

The quality of the field is underlined by the presence of 12 women with personal bests faster than 2:20, highlighting just how fiercely contested the race is expected to be.

With Chicago’s flat course renowned for producing fast times, the conditions could provide the perfect setting for the leading contenders to test their limits. Every tactical decision, surge and late-race move could prove decisive as the elite women battle for victory.

All eyes will now turn to Chicago as Lokedi begins the final countdown to her debut. With her hard work already completed, the Kenyan star will be hoping that a successful taper translates into another memorable performance on one of the world’s fastest marathon stages.

Belgian marathon star Bashir Abdi has been forced to withdraw from the 2026 Chicago Marathon after suffering a calf injury during his final training session in Flagstaff, Arizona.

The two-time Olympic marathon medallist confirmed on Monday that a small tear in his calf has ruled him out of Sunday’s race, bringing an untimely end to months of preparation for one of the biggest marathons of the year.

“Unfortunately, I will not be participating in the Chicago Marathon this weekend,” Abdi announced. “During my last training session in Flagstaff, I suffered a small tear in my calf.”

The 37-year-old stressed that the injury is not considered serious, but explained that it is significant enough to prevent him from safely taking his place on the start line. After consulting with his coach and medical team, the decision was made to avoid taking unnecessary risks.

“It’s not a major injury, but enough to keep me from the start line. After consulting with my coach and medical team, we decided not to take any risks,” Abdi said.

The withdrawal is a major disappointment for Abdi, who had been listed among the elite contenders for the 48th edition of the Bank of America Chicago Marathon. The race is scheduled for October 11 and is expected to feature more than 55,000 finishers.

Abdi arrived at the Chicago buildup with an impressive marathon résumé. He won Olympic silver in Paris in 2024 after previously taking bronze at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, establishing himself as one of the most accomplished marathoners of his generation.

He is also the European marathon record-holder, having clocked 2:03:36 in Rotterdam in 2021 to become the first European athlete to break the 2:04 barrier.

His 2026 season had shown that he remained capable of competing at the highest level. In April, Abdi finished third at the Rotterdam Marathon in 2:04:19, behind Ethiopia’s Guye Adola and Tesfaye Deriba.

For Abdi, the immediate priority is now recovery rather than forcing a return before he is ready. Missing Chicago will undoubtedly be frustrating after months of preparation, but protecting his long-term career is the more important decision.

The Belgian remains determined to move forward, with his focus now shifting toward rehabilitation and preparing for his next opportunity to race.

For one of Europe’s greatest marathoners, Chicago may be off the calendar—but the pursuit of more history continues.

Ethiopia dominated the 2026 Brasov Running Festival in Romania, with Khairi Bejiga and Asefu Abreha claiming impressive victories in two fiercely contested elite 10km races.

Bejiga, still only 20, successfully defended his title in the men’s race, becoming the first athlete — male or female — to win the Brasov 10K in consecutive editions across the event’s six-year history.

The Ethiopian produced a dramatic finish to retain his crown, edging training partner Nibret Kinde by just one second. Bejiga stopped the clock at 27:01, while Kinde followed in 27:02. Ayele Tadesse completed an Ethiopian sweep of the men’s podium in 27:09.

The depth of the field was underlined by the performances behind the leading trio, with Kenyan Amos Kipkemoi Bett finishing fourth in 27:13, followed by Djibouti’s Hani Idriss Hersi in 27:16.

Kenya also placed three more athletes inside the top 10, with Laban Kosgei sixth in 27:21, Victor Okoth Otieno seventh in 27:22, Kevin Chesang ninth in 27:29 and Silas Senchura 10th in 27:32. Uganda’s Samuel Simba Cherop completed the top eight in 27:25.

Brasov Running Festival 2026 — Men’s Top 10

1. Khairi Bejiga — Ethiopia — 27:01 

2. Nibret Kinde — Ethiopia — 27:02 

3. Ayele Tadesse — Ethiopia — 27:09 

4. Amos Kipkemoi Bett — Kenya — 27:13

5. Hani Idriss Hersi — Djibouti — 27:16

6. Laban Kosgei — Kenya — 27:21

7. Victor Okoth Otieno — Kenya — 27:22

8. Samuel Simba Cherop — Uganda — 27:25

9. Kevin Chesang — Kenya — 27:29

10. Silas Senchura — Kenya — 27:32

The women’s race delivered another Ethiopian victory as Asefu Abreha produced a major personal best to take the title in 30:16.

Abreha, also 20, surprised a strong field with a breakthrough performance, finishing three seconds ahead of compatriot Aynadis Mebratu, who crossed the line in 30:19.

Ethiopia completed the women’s podium through Yenenesh Shimket Ademas, whose 30:21 was a world under-20 best for the 10km distance, adding another significant achievement to an extraordinary Ethiopian showing in Brasov.

Djibouti’s Samiya Hassan Nour finished fourth in 30:37, while South Africa’s Tayla Kavanagh was fifth in 30:50. Kenya’s Nelvin Jepkemboi placed sixth in 30:57.

The remaining places in the women’s top 10 were filled by Ethiopia’s Mastewal Mehabaw in 30:59, Axumawit Embaye in 31:05 and Tibeb Eneyew in 31:29, with Romania’s Joan Chelimo Melly rounding out the top 10 in 31:46.

Brasov Running Festival 2026 — Women’s Top 10

1. Asefu Abreha — Ethiopia — 30:16 

2. Aynadis Mebratu — Ethiopia — 30:19 

3. Yenenesh Shimket Ademas — Ethiopia — 30:21 

4. Samiya Hassan Nour — Djibouti — 30:37

5. Tayla Kavanagh — South Africa — 30:50

6. Nelvin Jepkemboi — Kenya — 30:57

7. Mastewal Mehabaw — Ethiopia — 30:59

8. Axumawit Embaye — Ethiopia — 31:05

9. Tibeb Eneyew — Ethiopia — 31:29

10. Joan Chelimo Melly — Romania — 31:46

The Brasov Running Festival has established itself as one of the fastest and most competitive 10km road races in Europe, attracting an increasingly deep international field capable of producing world-class performances.

The 2026 edition further strengthened that reputation, with national records for Djibouti and South Africa and a European under-18 best also among the notable achievements of the event.

For Ethiopia, however, the spotlight belonged to Bejiga and Abreha. Their victories gave the nation a memorable double in Brasov, with 27:01 and 30:16 respectively highlighting another spectacular day of elite road racing in Romania.

The 2026 Košice Marathon delivered a strong display of international marathon talent, with South Africa’s Adam Lipschitz and Ethiopia’s Aberash Fayesa Robi claiming victories in contrasting but equally impressive performances on the streets of Košice, Slovakia.

In the women’s race, Fayesa Robi produced the standout performance, crossing the finish line in 2:21:54 to secure a commanding victory and improve her personal best. The Ethiopian maintained a strong rhythm throughout the race before finishing well clear of the rest of the field.

Her compatriot Nurit Ahmed Samiro added another impressive chapter to Ethiopia’s day, placing second in 2:25:03 on her marathon debut. Racing over the full 42.195-kilometre distance for the first time, Samiro delivered a remarkably mature performance to immediately establish herself among the leading names in the field.

Kenya’s Tecla Jelimo Kibet completed the women’s international podium, finishing third in 2:29:56. Her performance secured a place among a highly competitive leading group as the Ethiopian pair dominated the top two positions.

The men’s contest was even tighter at the front, with Adam Lipschitz producing a breakthrough performance to win in 2:07:21. The South African not only claimed the prestigious Košice Marathon title but also lowered his personal best, underlining the quality of his performance on the day.

Kenya’s Abednego Cheruiyot pushed Lipschitz all the way and finished second in 2:07:53, also recording a new personal best. The Kenyan remained firmly in contention deep into the race before crossing the line just 32 seconds behind the winner.

Another Kenyan, Moses Kipngetich Kemei, secured third place in 2:08:04, giving Kenya two athletes inside 2:09 and completing a highly competitive podium.

Turkey’s Kaan Kigen Özbilen followed in fourth with 2:08:22, narrowly missing the podium after remaining within striking distance of the leading trio.

The performances in Košice highlighted the depth of the international field, with the men’s race producing three athletes under 2:09 and the women’s contest featuring a commanding winning performance alongside an impressive marathon debut.

The results once again underlined the historic Košice Marathon’s ability to attract high-level athletes from across the world and provide a competitive stage for both established marathoners and emerging talent.

Kenyan distance-running star Joyciline Jepkosgei delivered a commanding performance at the 2026 Cardiff Half Marathon, storming to victory in 1:05:40 and rewriting the women’s course record in impressive fashion.

Jepkosgei produced a composed and powerful run at the front of the race, eventually pulling clear of a strong Ethiopian challenge to secure the title. Her winning time gave her a 14-second advantage over Ethiopia’s Wede Kefale, adding another prestigious road-racing victory to her accomplished career.

Kefale mounted the strongest challenge to the Kenyan, crossing the finish line in 1:05:54. She remained firmly in contention throughout the race, but Jepkosgei found the decisive strength when it mattered most to claim both victory and the course record.

The final podium position went to another Ethiopian, with Tigist Tesema making an impressive half-marathon debut in 1:07:23. Her performance completed a podium dominated by Kenya and Ethiopia and underlined the depth of talent competing at the front of the race.

For Jepkosgei, the Cardiff triumph adds another significant achievement to a career that has already produced major victories and world-class performances over the half-marathon distance. Her experience, controlled pacing and ability to deliver under pressure once again proved decisive on race day.

The 2026 Cardiff Half Marathon provided far more than a thrilling elite women’s contest. Gideon Kiprotich secured the men’s title stopping the clock at 59:34 giving Kenya a memorable double victory in the Welsh capital, while the elite wheelchair races and Welsh Championship events added further excitement to an action-packed programme.

The event also provided a platform for some of Wales’ leading athletes to compete on home soil, while runners across the field contributed to the atmosphere of a race that brought together elite competitors and thousands of participants.

From the sharp end of the elite races to the final finishers crossing the line, Cardiff produced another memorable celebration of road running. For Jepkosgei, however, the headline belonged to her: a commanding victory, a new course record and another impressive mark on her distinguished career.

Jepkosgei’s performance was ultimately a statement of class and consistency, as the experienced Kenyan turned a fiercely contested international field into another memorable triumph. With a new course record now attached to her name in Cardiff, she once again demonstrated the speed, resilience and tactical intelligence that have made her one of the most respected figures in modern women’s road racing.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia — Ezekiel Kemboi Omullo emerged victorious at the 2026 Kuala Lumpur Marathon, leading an impressive Kenyan performance as athletes from the East African nation claimed nine of the top 10 positions in the men’s race.

Omullo produced a winning performance of 2:21:15, edging compatriot John Nzau Mwangangi, who finished second in 2:21:23. Moses Kibet Kipsang completed the podium in 2:21:34, giving Kenya a clean sweep of the first three places.

The contest at the front was remarkably close, with the leading Kenyan athletes separated by only seconds. Samuel Kalalei matched Kipsang’s time of 2:21:34 to finish fourth, while James Tallam followed closely in fifth with 2:21:40.

Kenya’s strong showing continued with Julius Kipkorir Tuwei, who crossed the line sixth in 2:22:10. Ethiopia’s Asmera Tamiru Beshir was the only athlete from outside Kenya among the first seven, finishing seventh in 2:22:28.

The Kenyan dominance resumed behind Beshir, with Vincent Kipsang Mutai taking eighth in 2:23:08. Edwin Cheruiyot Soi finished ninth in 2:23:53, while Felix Kipsang Mutai completed the top 10 in 2:25:24.

The narrow margins among the front-runners made the men’s race particularly competitive. Omullo’s eight-second advantage over Mwangangi was the largest gap separating the top two, while Kipsang and Kalalei could not be separated on the clock after both recorded 2:21:34.

For Kenya, the result underlined the depth of its marathon talent. Nine of the 10 leading finishers came from Kenya, with the country occupying every position from first through sixth before Beshir interrupted the sequence in seventh.

Omullo ultimately took the headline victory, but the wider performance from the Kenyan contingent was equally striking. From the opening positions through the closing places of the top 10, Kenya maintained a commanding presence on the Kuala Lumpur results sheet.

2026 Kuala Lumpur Marathon — Men’s Top 10

1. Ezekiel Kemboi Omullo — Kenya — 2:21:15

2. John Nzau Mwangangi — Kenya — 2:21:23

3. Moses Kibet Kipsang — Kenya — 2:21:34

4. Samuel Kalalei — Kenya — 2:21:34

5. James Tallam — Kenya — 2:21:40

6. Julius Kipkorir Tuwei — Kenya — 2:22:10

7. Asmera Tamiru Beshir — Ethiopia — 2:22:28

8. Vincent Kipsang Mutai — Kenya — 2:23:08

9. Edwin Cheruiyot Soi — Kenya — 2:23:53

10. Felix Kipsang Mutai — Kenya — 2:25:24

Omullo’s triumph therefore came alongside a powerful collective showing from Kenya, with the 2026 Kuala Lumpur Marathon providing another showcase of the country’s remarkable depth in long-distance road racing.

The women’s race at the 2026 TCS Amsterdam Marathon is shaping up to be one of the most competitive editions in recent years, with a deep international field set to take on the fast Dutch course on Sunday, October 18.

At the centre of the contest will be four Ethiopian athletes who have already broken the 2:20 barrier, creating the prospect of a fascinating battle for victory and a possible assault on the course record of 2:16:52.

Defending champion Aynalem Desta will return to Amsterdam looking to retain her title after producing the biggest performance of her career at last year’s 50th edition. Desta won in a personal best of 2:17:37, establishing herself among the leading marathoners in the field and setting the benchmark for this year’s contenders.

Standing in her way will be fellow Ethiopian Meseret Belete Tola, a former Amsterdam champion who knows exactly what it takes to succeed on the course. Belete Tola captured the 2023 edition in 2:18:21, and her return adds another layer of experience and proven quality to an already formidable lineup.

The field also includes Mestawut Fikir Truneh, who arrives with an impressive marathon pedigree. Truneh finished runner-up at the 2024 Berlin Marathon in 2:18:48, demonstrating her ability to compete at the highest level on one of the world's major marathon stages.

Completing the quartet of sub-2:20 Ethiopians is Buze Diriba, whose personal best of 2:19:34 places her firmly among the leading contenders. With four athletes possessing credentials below 2:20, the race is likely to develop into a tightly contested battle from the opening kilometres.

The depth extends well beyond the leading quartet. Desi Jisa Mokonin, representing Bahrain, Yeshi Kalayu Chekole of Ethiopia and Nazret Weldu Gebrehiwet of Eritrea have all established themselves as serious marathon competitors with performances approaching the 2:20 mark.

Another major name to watch is Abeba Aregawi, the former 1500m world champion representing Sweden. Aregawi has successfully transferred her talents to the marathon and made headlines earlier this year by setting a Swedish national record of 2:23:12 on her debut. Her presence adds another intriguing dimension to an already high-quality field.

Amsterdam’s marathon course has consistently provided an opportunity for elite athletes to produce fast times, and this year’s women’s lineup has the depth to turn the race into a genuine test of both championship racing and outright speed.

With four athletes already inside 2:20, two former Amsterdam champions returning to the start line and several other accomplished marathoners ready to challenge them, the battle is expected to remain open deep into the race.

The ultimate target will be the Amsterdam women’s course record of 2:16:52. Whether the leading contenders can threaten that mark remains to be seen, but the quality assembled for October 18 ensures that the record will be firmly in the spotlight when the race reaches its spectacular finish inside the Olympic Stadium.

The 2026 Valencia Half Marathon is shaping up to be a thrilling contest of speed, endurance and tactical brilliance, with some of the world’s finest road runners set to converge in Spain on October 25.

Kenya’s Daniel Ebenyo and Alex Matata will be among the leading contenders, facing a formidable Ethiopian challenge spearheaded by Jemal Yimer and Tadese Worku. The field also features Rodrigue Kwizera, who boasts the fastest personal best among the leading entrants at 58:16.

Ebenyo arrives with a personal best of 59:04, placing him firmly among the athletes capable of sustaining a demanding pace over the 21.1-kilometre distance. Matata, who owns a 59:11 best, adds further Kenyan strength, while Andrea Kiptoo brings another sub-60-minute credential to the race.

Yimer has already established himself as one of the fastest athletes in the field with a 58:33 personal best, while Worku has clocked 58:35. Kenya’s Owen Korir, with a best of 58:58, further underlines the remarkable depth of the men's lineup.

Valencia Half Marathon 2026 Entries

1. Rodrigue Kwizera (Spain) — 58:16

2. Jemal Yimer (Ethiopia) — 58:33

3. Tadese Worku (Ethiopia) — 58:35

4. Owen Korir (Kenya) — 58:58

5. Daniel Ebenyo (Kenya) — 59:04

6. Alex Matata (Kenya) — 59:11

7. Andrea Kiptoo (Kenya) — 59:11

8. Thierry Ndikumwenayo (Spain) — 59:42

9. Said Mechaal (Spain) — 1:00:24

10. Adel Mechaal (Spain) — 1:02:30

Kwizera, who finished second in Valencia last year, leads the field on paper and will be seeking another standout performance on the famously fast Valencia course. With several athletes carrying sub-60-minute credentials, the race has the ingredients for an aggressive battle from the opening kilometres.

Beyond the headline names, the men’s field is deep and highly competitive, bringing together a strong collection of experienced international athletes with proven ability over the half-marathon distance. With so much quality packed into the lineup, the race promises an intriguing battle in which tactics, endurance, positioning and finishing speed could all play a crucial role in determining the eventual champion.

Yet personal bests will count for little once the gun goes off. The title could ultimately be decided by patience, positioning and the ability to respond when the pace begins to rise in the closing stages. Every surge, every tactical move and every second saved could prove decisive on the road to the finish.

With Kenya, Ethiopia and Spain represented by athletes of exceptional quality, Valencia promises a high-octane men's showdown in which the leaders are likely to be separated by only a handful of seconds. The final kilometres could provide the defining moments of a race packed with speed, ambition and anticipation.

On October 25, the question will be simple: who has the strength to command the streets of Valencia and claim the coveted half-marathon crown?

Twenty-six years ago yesterday, Jon Brown produced one of the most memorable Olympic marathon performances of his career, narrowly missing out on a medal for Great Britain at the Sydney 2000 Games.

Brown delivered a determined run through the streets of Sydney, crossing the finish line in 2:11:17 to secure fourth place in a fiercely contested Olympic marathon.

The British distance runner came agonisingly close to the podium, finishing just seven seconds behind Ethiopia’s Tesfaye Tola, who claimed the bronze medal in 2:11:10.

For Brown, Sydney was a painful near-miss, but it would also mark the beginning of an extraordinary chapter in his Olympic career.

Four years later, at the Athens 2004 Olympic Games, Brown once again found himself within touching distance of an Olympic medal. He completed the marathon in 2:12:26, once again finishing fourth.

His performance in Sydney was particularly impressive given the unique demands of an Olympic marathon. Unlike major city marathons where athletes often have the clock and course records as primary targets, the Olympic race is shaped by tactics, national pride and the pressure of competing on the world's biggest sporting stage.

Brown remained firmly among the leading contenders in Sydney and was ultimately separated from a bronze medal by just seven seconds — a tiny margin after 42.195 kilometres of racing.

His return to the Olympic stage in Athens four years later added another remarkable dimension to his story. To reproduce a fourth-place finish at consecutive Olympic Games required extraordinary consistency, resilience and the ability to perform under immense pressure.

Although the medals continued to elude him, Brown's back-to-back fourth-place finishes established him as one of the most consistent marathoners of his generation. Few athletes experience the heartbreak of finishing just outside the medals once at an Olympics, let alone doing so again four years later.

Two Olympic marathons, two fourth-place finishes and two agonisingly close encounters with the podium — Brown's Olympic record may not include a medal, but it remains a remarkable testament to his longevity and competitiveness at the highest level of distance running.

His story is also a reminder of the brutal margins that define elite sport. After more than two hours of racing, the difference between Olympic glory and fourth place in Sydney came down to just seven seconds.

For Jon Brown, those seven seconds became part of Olympic history — while his performances in Sydney and Athens ensured that his name would remain firmly etched among Britain's outstanding marathoners.

The Valencia Half Marathon 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated women’s road races of the season, with a deep international field set to assemble in Valencia, Spain, on Sunday, October 25.

Leading the announced line-up are Ethiopia’s Yalemzerf Yehualaw, Tsigie Gebreselama and Kenya’s Caroline Gitonga, with a strong group of athletes from Kenya, Ethiopia, Germany and Spain adding considerable depth to the race.

Yehualaw arrives with a listed personal best of 1:03:51, placing her among the fastest athletes in the field. The Ethiopian has considerable experience in Valencia, having finished second in the 2021 edition in 1:03:51 when compatriot Letesenbet Gidey set the then-world record of 1:02:52.

Gebreselama is also listed at 1:04:21, while Ethiopia’s Ftaw Zerai enters with 1:05:12. Their presence gives Ethiopia a formidable challenge at the front of the women’s race and sets the stage for a potentially fast contest from the opening kilometres.

Kenya will be strongly represented as well. Daisilah Jerono has a listed best of 1:05:21, followed by Veronica Loleo at 1:05:35 and Caroline Gitonga at 1:06:16. Loleo is particularly familiar with Valencia, having finished third in the 2025 race in 1:05:46.

Germany’s Konstanze Klosterhalfen, listed at 1:05:41, adds another major international name to the field. Meanwhile, Spain’s hopes will be carried by Carla Gallardo, Laura Luengo and Irene Sánchez-Escribano, who are listed at 1:08:30, 1:08:50 and 1:09:10 respectively.

Valencia Half Marathon 2026 — Women’s Elite Field

1. Yalemzerf Yehualaw (Ethiopia) — 1:03:51

2. Tsigie Gebreselama (Ethiopia) — 1:04:21

3. Ftaw Zerai (Ethiopia) — 1:05:12

4. Daisilah Jerono (Kenya) — 1:05:21

5. Veronica Loleo (Kenya) — 1:05:35

6. Mizam Alem (Ethiopia) — 1:05:38

7. Konstanze Klosterhalfen (Germany) — 1:05:41

8. Caroline Gitonga (Kenya) — 1:06:16

9. Carla Gallardo (Spain) — 1:08:30

10. Laura Luengo (Spain) — 1:08:50

11. Irene Sánchez-Escribano (Spain) — 1:09:10

The quality of the field is particularly significant given Valencia’s reputation as one of the fastest half-marathon venues in the world. The race has produced both the women’s and men’s world records, with Gidey running 1:02:52 in 2021 and Yomif Kejelcha clocking 57:30 in 2024.

With several athletes already possessing credentials around or below the 1:06 mark, the women’s race could develop into a high-quality battle over the 21.0975-kilometre distance. The depth behind the leading trio also means the outcome could depend on pacing, positioning and how the contenders respond when the race reaches its decisive stages.

For the Spanish athletes, racing on home roads provides an opportunity to challenge a powerful African contingent, while the Kenyan and Ethiopian runners will arrive with ambitions of competing for the leading positions.

The Valencia Half Marathon 2026 will take place on October 25, bringing together an international elite field alongside thousands of mass-participation runners on the fast streets of Valencia.

The 2027 TCS London Marathon has found a remarkably unconventional way to settle one of its biggest questions — with a game of rock, paper, scissors.

Kenyan marathon star Sabastian Sawe and Swiss wheelchair champion Catherine Debrunner, the reigning London Marathon champions in their respective races, went head-to-head in a contest overseen by an official Guinness World Records adjudicator.

Debrunner emerged victorious, securing Sunday, April 25, 2027, for the elite women’s and women’s wheelchair races. As a result, the elite men’s and men’s wheelchair races will open the historic weekend on Saturday, April 24.

The unusual showdown has also earned its place in the record books, with Guinness World Records recognising it as the first elite marathon race start ever decided by a game of rock, paper, scissors.

The decision adds another memorable chapter to what will already be an extraordinary edition of the London Marathon. For 2027 only, the race will be staged across two days, creating the Double TCS London Marathon, with around 100,000 participants expected to take part across the weekend.

Sawe enters the story as one of the defining figures of the 2026 London Marathon. The Kenyan made history by clocking 1:59:30, becoming the first athlete to run a sub-two-hour marathon in a record-eligible competitive race.

Debrunner, meanwhile, is a four-time London Marathon wheelchair champion, making her one of the most successful athletes in the event’s history. Her victory over Sawe means the women’s elite and women’s wheelchair races will retain the traditional Sunday spotlight.

The 2026 London Marathon also produced another landmark performance on the same course, with Ethiopia’s Tigst Assefa setting a women’s-only marathon world record.

The unprecedented two-day format was introduced following extraordinary demand for places. A record 1.33 million people applied for the 2027 London Marathon ballot, surpassing the previous record for any marathon.

With approximately 100,000 runners expected to finish on The Mall over the weekend — close to twice the size of the 2026 field — London is preparing for one of the biggest marathon weekends ever staged.

London Marathon Events chief executive Hugh Brasher added a playful warning after the rock-paper-scissors showdown, suggesting that while Sawe and Debrunner could settle the schedule with a game, the atmosphere would be considerably more competitive once the racing begins.

And so, before the first elite athlete has even reached the start line, the 2027 London Marathon has already made history — with its schedule decided not by the clock, but by rock, paper, scissors.