Runner Injured by Race Worker Misses Mexico City Marathon — 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.
José Julio Mendoza, a veteran runner, will miss the Mexico City Marathon after a race worker injured him at a smaller event. Mendoza, known locally as Don José, ran without a registration number at the Huamantla color run. The incident, caught on video, shows the worker knocking Mendoza down near the finish line.
Mendoza, who has participated in over 55 races, was preparing for the Mexico City Marathon when the incident occurred. Despite not being registered, he ran the color run as part of his training. The video of the incident sparked widespread criticism in Mexico. Read more gear coverage.
The staff member, identified as Ricardo Romano Corona, apologized publicly. Zona T, the event organizer, also issued an apology and pledged to review access control. Mendoza has reached an agreement with Corona's family to cover his medical costs and will not pursue legal action. Related: Marathon Handbook Review: VKTRY Carbon Plated Insoles.
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 Runner Injured by Race Worker Misses Mexico City Marathon?
A veteran runner's shoulder injury prevents him from participating in the upcoming marathon. José Julio Mendoza, a veteran runner, will miss the Mexico City Marathon after a race worker injured him at a smaller event. Mendoza, known locally as Don José, ran without a registration number at the Huamantla color run. The incident, caught on video, shows the worker knocking Mendoza down near the finish line.
When did Runner World publish this gear brief?
Runner World published this brief on August 6, 2026. The underlying Marathon Handbook report was dated August 5, 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.
THE WEEKLY BRIEFING
Start the week a step ahead.
A concise edit of the running stories worth knowing, sent every Monday.
