Tigst Assefa sets world record and conquers the London Marathon

LONDON. – Ethiopian Tigst Assefa made history again this Sunday by conquering the women’s division of the London Marathon with a new world record of 2 hours, 15 minutes and 41 seconds.

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Assefa, who already held the best universal record in exclusively female marathons, surpassed her own record set in 2025 in the British capital. On this occasion, she prevailed in a close finish over Kenyans Hellen Obiri (2:15:53) and Joyciline Jepkosgei (2:15:55). With this triumph, the African long-distance runner adds her fourth major title in prestigious marathons, following her victories in Berlin and London, solidifying her position as one of the great figures of world athletics.

Sawe also makes history in the men’s branch

The day was equally memorable in the men’s category, where Kenyan Sabastian Sawe set a new world marathon record by stopping the clock at 1:59:30, becoming the fastest in history in an official race. Sawe surpassed the previous mark of his compatriot Kelvin Kiptum (2:00:35 in Chicago 2023) and crossed the finish line ahead of Ethiopian Yomif Kejelcha (1:59:41) and Ugandan Jacob Kiplimo (2:00:28). High participation and festive atmosphere The test had favorable weather conditions, with temperatures close to 16 degrees, and a massive attendance of the public in the streets of London. In addition, the edition registered a record participation with about 60,000 runners, in the midst of a festive atmosphere characterized by costumes and demonstrations of enthusiasm from the fans. Among other outstanding performances, the Spaniard Marta Galimany finished tenth with 2:27:38, while the Uruguayan Julia Paternain finished in eighth position with a time of 2:25:47. The London Marathon once again confirmed its status as one of the great events in world athletics, with historic marks and a high level of competition.