The 2026 BMW Berlin Marathon is set to take place on Sunday, September 27, 2026, at 8:45 a.m. Central European Time (2:45 a.m. US ET), with Ethiopian runner Tigst Assefa aiming to secure her third consecutive victory and possibly reclaim the women’s marathon world record.
Why it matters: The Berlin Marathon is renowned for its fast course, having hosted more world records than any other marathon, with a total of 13 records set since its inception in 1974. Assefa's participation highlights the race's legacy as a venue for record-breaking performances.
The Berlin Marathon has become a prime destination for runners chasing history, setting the stage for elite performances.
Assefa previously set the women's marathon world record in Berlin in 2023 with a time of 2:11:53.
This year, she aims to reclaim that title after the women’s record was recently surpassed by Ruth Chepngetich.
Driving the news: The anticipation surrounding the 2026 race has intensified following the withdrawals of notable competitors. Defending champion and world record holder Sabastian Sawe withdrew due to a tibial stress fracture, and Ethiopian legend Kenenisa Bekele also exited the race with an Achilles injury.
Sawe's withdrawal leaves Assefa as the leading contender for victory, with all eyes on her potential world record attempt.
Berlin's marathon history includes 13 world records, making it a focal point for elite long-distance runners.
Assefa's previous record-setting performance in 2023 solidified her status as a formidable competitor.
The big picture: The 2026 Berlin Marathon is not just about the race; it captures the evolution of marathon running. Assefa’s success has brought renewed attention to the women’s event, especially after she shattered the previous women's marathon record by over two minutes.
Assefa's 2023 record of 2:11:53 marked a historic moment, ending a 20-year drought for women's marathon world records in Berlin.
Her recent performances indicate a strong potential for another record-breaking run, especially with favorable weather conditions expected.
Berlin's reputation as a record-breaking venue continues to attract elite runners from around the globe.
What they're saying: Assefa expressed her excitement about returning to Berlin, indicating her focus on achieving a personal best rather than solely chasing the world record. “I am really ahead to running on the fast course in Berlin again and hope that I can continue my success story here on Sunday,” she said through an interpreter.
Assefa's coach, Gemedu Dedefo, has been optimistic about her training, stating that she is well-prepared for the challenge ahead.
Defending champion Rosemary Wanjiru aims to improve her personal best of 2:16:14, stating, “The only race will be that against the clock in Berlin.”
Wanjiru's experience in Berlin adds a layer of competitiveness, as she seeks to defend her title against Assefa.
By the numbers: The 2026 BMW Berlin Marathon features a competitive women's field including several top athletes:
Tigst Assefa: World record holder with a personal best of 2:11:53.
Rosemary Wanjiru: Defending champion with a personal best of 2:16:14.
Other notable contenders include Bedatu Hirpa and Dera Dida, both with personal bests under 2:19.
The marathon's history includes 13 world records, the most of any marathon globally.
What's next: Assefa's performance will be closely watched as she aims to make history once again. The race organizers are promoting her attempt as a world record challenge, adding to the excitement of the event.
The marathon will be streamed live on FloTrack for U.S. audiences, starting at 2:30 a.m. ET.
Assefa and Wanjiru are expected to lead the pack, with other elite runners also vying for top finishes.
The current forecast predicts ideal running conditions, with temperatures in the 50s and minimal winds.