Ethiopia's Tigst Assefa (C) is helped off the track after crossing the finish line to win the women's race of 52nd Berlin Marathon in Berlin, Germany on September 27, 2026.. Image accompanying BBC Sport Athletics’ report; reduced and presented for news commentary with the attributed report. View the complete source report.
Tigst Assefa, injured, won Berlin Marathon with third-fastest time. She led by a minute at 15km but slowed in final stages. Despite discomfort, she broke her own Berlin course record.
Assefa, 2026 London Marathon winner, was ahead of record pace at 35km. She improved her London time but fell short of world record. Ruth Chepngetich's 2024 Chicago time remains the record. Read more racing coverage.
Race director Mark Milde praised Assefa's performance. He noted her struggle with tendon pain. Ethiopians dominated the top five, with Bedatu Hirpa and Dera Dida second and third. Related: Assefa's Record Attempt Ends in Heartbreak at Berlin Marathon.
This original Runner World brief is based on reporting from BBC Sport Athletics. Visit the source for its complete reporting, context and any later corrections.
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Questions about this report
What should runners know about Assefa's Injury Halts World Record Bid at Berlin Marathon?
Tigst Assefa, despite injury, finishes third-fastest ever in Berlin. Tigst Assefa, injured, won Berlin Marathon with third-fastest time. She led by a minute at 15km but slowed in final stages. Despite discomfort, she broke her own Berlin course record.
When did Runner World publish this racing brief?
Runner World published this brief on September 28, 2026. The underlying BBC Sport Athletics report was dated September 27, 2026.
Where can readers find the complete original report?
This summary is based on reporting from BBC Sport Athletics. The attributed source link in the article leads to the publisher’s complete report.
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