Benson Kipruto Returns to New York City Marathon as Defending Champion

Benson Kipruto, the 2025 New York City Marathon winner, returns as the defending champion. Kipruto edged Alexander Mutiso by 0.03 seconds last year, marking the closest men’s finish in the race’s history.

Kipruto’s personal best of 2:02:16 from the 2024 Tokyo Marathon leads the men’s field. His victory in New York would be his fifth World Marathon Major win, a feat unmatched since Geoffrey Mutai’s back-to-back wins in 2011 and 2013. Read more culture coverage.

Kipruto’s experience in New York, including a photo-finish win, gives him an edge. His past successes in Chicago, Tokyo, and Boston, along with an Olympic bronze, highlight his prowess in major marathons. Related: Hellen Obiri Set to Defend New York City Marathon Title.

This original Runner World brief is based on reporting from Marathon Handbook. Visit the source for its complete reporting, context and any later corrections.

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What should runners know about Benson Kipruto Returns to New York City Marathon as Defending Champion?

Kipruto, with the fastest personal best, aims for consecutive wins in New York. Benson Kipruto, the 2025 New York City Marathon winner, returns as the defending champion. Kipruto edged Alexander Mutiso by 0.03 seconds last year, marking the closest men’s finish in the race’s history.

When did Runner World publish this culture brief?

Runner World published this brief on October 27, 2026. The underlying Marathon Handbook report was dated October 26, 2026.

Where can readers find the complete original report?

This summary is based on reporting from Marathon Handbook. The attributed source link in the article leads to the publisher’s complete report.

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