Elite Women's Race at 2026 Chicago Marathon: A Competitive Showdown — image accompanying Marathon Handbook's report. Image accompanying Marathon Handbook’s report; reduced and presented for news commentary with the attributed report. View the complete source report.
Twelve women with sub-2:20 marathon times are set to compete in the 2026 Chicago Marathon, according to Marathon Handbook. Brigid Kosgei leads the field with a 2:14:04 personal best.
Defending champion Hawi Feysa, who won last year in 2:14:57, expects a tough race this year. Sutume Kebede, with a 2:15:55 best, and Sharon Lokedi, a two-time Boston winner, also pose strong challenges. Read more culture coverage.
Brillian Kipkoech, who set a course record of 2:17:05 in Hamburg, and Degitu Azimeraw, with a 2:17:58 best, are among the contenders. The race is expected to be warm, potentially affecting personal bests. Related: Sharon Lokedi's Chicago Marathon: A Test of Flat Course Speed.
This original Runner World brief is based on reporting from Marathon Handbook. Visit the source for its complete reporting, context and any later corrections.
Reader questions
Questions about this report
What should runners know about Elite Women's Race at 2026 Chicago Marathon: A Competitive Showdown?
With multiple sub-2:20 runners, the 2026 Chicago Marathon women's race promises intense competition. Twelve women with sub-2:20 marathon times are set to compete in the 2026 Chicago Marathon, according to Marathon Handbook. Brigid Kosgei leads the field with a 2:14:04 personal best.
When did Runner World publish this culture brief?
Runner World published this brief on October 8, 2026. The underlying Marathon Handbook report was dated October 8, 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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