The 2026 BMW Berlin Marathon is set to take place on Sunday, September 27, with elite runners and recreational participants alike converging on the German capital for one of the world's fastest marathon courses. The race, which has historically been a stage for record-breaking performances, will see Ethiopian star Tigst Assefa attempt to reclaim the world record she previously held, while the men's field has been reshaped by high-profile withdrawals.
A Historic Stage for Record Chasing
The Berlin Marathon has long been synonymous with speed. Since its inception in 1974, the event has witnessed 13 world records, more than any other marathon. The flat, fast course starts near the Reichstag and finishes through the iconic Brandenburg Gate, creating ideal conditions for athletes aiming to etch their names into history.
This year, all eyes are on Tigst Assefa. The Ethiopian runner set a then-world record of 2:11:53 at the 2023 Berlin Marathon and has since lowered the women's-only world record to 2:15:41 at the London Marathon earlier this year. She returns to Berlin with a clear objective: to break the current world record and claim her place atop the all-time list. Assefa's pursuit is not just about personal glory; it is about redefining the limits of women's distance running.
The Women's Elite Field
Assefa is not without competition. Defending champion Rosemary Wanjiru of Kenya, who won the 2025 Berlin Marathon, returns with a personal best of 2:16:14. She is joined by a deep field of Ethiopian runners, including Bedatu Hirpa, Dera Dida, and Zeineba Yimer, all of whom have run under 2:19. The presence of such a strong contingent suggests that the race could see multiple athletes pushing the pace, potentially leading to a fast, tactical battle.
Men's Race Shaken by Withdrawals
The men's race has been significantly altered by the withdrawal of two major contenders. Sabastian Sawe, who was expected to be a frontrunner, pulled out with an injury, and Kenenisa Bekele, the 44-year-old Olympic and world champion, withdrew on Thursday due to an Achilles injury. Bekele's absence is a notable loss for fans hoping to see the veteran compete on a course where he has previously excelled.
With Sawe and Bekele out, the spotlight shifts to Gabriel Geay of Tanzania. Geay, the top seed, boasts a personal best of 2:03:00 and will be looking to capitalize on the opportunity. He faces stiff competition from Getaneh Molla, Guye Adola, and Shura Kitata, all of whom have broken 2:04. Additionally, Selemon Barega, the Olympic 10,000-meter champion, brings a 2:05:00 marathon best, adding further depth to the field.
The Fastest Course in the World
Berlin's reputation as a record-breaking course is well-earned. The race has produced legendary performances, from Christa Vahlensieck's first women's world record in 1977 to Eliud Kipchoge's sub-two-hour exhibition run in 2022 (though not an official record). The 2026 edition could add another chapter to this legacy, particularly if Assefa succeeds in her quest.
How to Watch and What to Expect
For viewers in the United States, the race will be broadcast live on FloTrack, with coverage beginning at 2:30 a.m. ET on Sunday, September 27. A FloTrack subscription is required, but the platform offers streaming via its website and app on various devices, including Roku, Fire TV, Google TV, and Apple TV. Archived footage will be available for subscribers after the race.
Weather and Conditions
The weather in Berlin at this time of year typically ranges from 50 to 63 degrees Fahrenheit, ideal for marathon running. Last year, however, unseasonably warm temperatures in the 70s and 80s affected the race, which was held a week earlier. This year's forecast suggests more favorable conditions, which could facilitate fast times.
The Broader Impact: Women's Running and Inclusivity
The 2026 Berlin Marathon is not just about elite performances. The event has become a platform for addressing broader issues in the running community, particularly regarding women's participation and safety. According to race organizers, women account for 36.2 percent of all participants in this year's marathon, with the share reaching 40.2 percent among runners aged 26 to 30.
Three days before the race, a panel titled "THE FUTURE OF WOMEN* WHO RUN" brought together athletes, journalists, and advocates to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing women in the sport. The panel, moderated by Inga Hofmann of Tagesspiegel, featured speakers including Jennifer Thomas, Vice President of Global Sports Marketing at adidas; defending champion Rosemary Wanjiru; and Esther Pfeiffer, one of Germany's leading female athletes.
Safety and Representation
Safety emerged as a key concern. For many women, feeling secure while running—especially during darker months—is not guaranteed. In response, SCC EVENTS, the race organizer, launched "WOMEN WHO RUN in the Dark," a program designed to support women running in winter. The initiative is set to return next winter.
Dr. Margrit Lock of the BMW Berlin-Marathon Medical Board highlighted the need for more research on women-specific needs in sports medicine, from training science to nutrition. The panel also emphasized the importance of male allies in advancing equality. Jennifer Thomas noted that men must be brought into the conversation as advocates.
Role Models and Community
For Rosemary Wanjiru, being a role model is increasingly important, especially in Kenya, where she hopes to inspire young girls. The panel also addressed the challenge of balancing family life with training, a hurdle that many mothers face. Ingalena Schömburg-Heuck, known as @leni_runner, stressed the need for a mindset shift so that women can prioritize exercise without guilt.
The 2026 Berlin Marathon thus represents more than a race; it is a reflection of the sport's evolving landscape, where performance and advocacy intersect.
A Race to Remember
As the countdown to Sunday continues, the 2026 Berlin Marathon promises a blend of high-stakes competition and cultural significance. With Assefa chasing history, a reshuffled men's field, and a growing focus on inclusivity, the event encapsulates the spirit of modern marathoning. Whether you're waking up early to watch or following the results afterward, Berlin is once again poised to deliver drama and inspiration.
For those looking to catch other major sporting events this weekend, the MLB playoff race is also heating up—check out the latest standings here. And if you're already planning for the end of daylight saving time, mark your calendars for November 1, as Congress continues to debate its future here.
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