The Media Guide for the BERLIN-MARATHON 2026

Men

Women

Prize Money Men and women

1. 30.000 Euro
2. 15.000
3. 10.000
4. 8.000
5. 6.500
6. 5.000
7. 4.000
8. 3.000
9. 2.000
10. 1.500

Time Bonus

Time bonus is not cumulative, one athlete receives one time bonus only.

Only the first two runners can earn a time bonus and only the winner/s can receive the world record bonus.

Gabriel Geay

Tanzania

BIRTHDATE: 10.9.1996

PERSONAL BEST: 2:03:00 (Valencia, 2022)

ABBOTT WORLD MARATHON MAJORS

ADDITIONAL MARATHONS

CAREER NOTES:

Gabriel Geay returns to the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON where he suffered in very high temperature last year and was among many elite athletes who dropped out. The 29-year-old Tanzanian marathon record holder has a world-class personal best of 2:03:00 and is among the top 20 on the list of the fastest runners of all times.

Gabriel Geay initially ran 5,000 and 10,000 m on the track and also covered these distances on the road - but without achieving international top times. It also took him a few years to run his first race under the hour in the half marathon: in 2000 he improved to 59:42 in Houston. It was a different story in the marathon. After failing to finish on his debut in Otsu (Japan) in 2020, he broke the Tanzanian national record in his second attempt. In 2021 he ran 2:04:55 in Milan and qualified for the Olympic Games in Japan. However in the Olympic race he did not finish in hot weather conditions.

Gabriel Geay bounced back in 2022 with a strong fourth place in Boston. After finishing seventh at the World Championships in Oregon (USA), he ran his best time of 2:03:00 in Valencia at the end of the year and took second. Gabriel Geay then followed this up with a second place in Boston in 2023 and ran very fast again in Valencia (2:04:33). Once again he was qualified for the Olympic Games. However 2024 was not his year as he did not finish in Boston or at the Olympics in Paris. But he then achieved his first marathon victory in February 2025: Geay won in Daegu, South Korea, in 2:05:20, having previously improved his half marathon PB to 59:18 in Houston. After the disappointment in Berlin last year Geay bounced back shortly afterwards with a quick time in Amsterdam. This spring he defended his title in Daegu.

PERSONAL BACKGROUND:

Gabriel Geay comes from Arusha in north-east Tanzania. He lives in the city with his wife and two children. He trains north of the city in Ilboru at an altitude of around 1,500 metres. His hobbies include drawing and his favourite dish is the maize porridge Ugali.

GETANEH MOLLA

ETHIOPIA

BIRTHDATE: 10.1.1994

PERSONAL BEST: 2:03:34 (Dubai, 2019)

ABBOTT WORLD MARATHON MAJORS

ADDITIONAL MARATHONS

CAREER NOTES:

Getaneh Molla celebrated the greatest success of his career in his marathon debut: In 2019 the Ethiopian won the highly competitive Dubai Marathon and clocked a world-class time of 2:03:34 – at that time, this was still a time achieved without the performance-enhancing carbon running shoes. Despite the new shoe technology Getaneh Molla has not yet managed to beat his debut time.

In his last two marathons, however, Getaneh Molla ran faster than he had since his debut and came relatively close to his personal best with times of 2:04:19 in Amsterdam and 2:04:23 in Seoul this spring. With its fast course, the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON now offers him a good chance to improve his PB from Dubai.

Before he turned to the marathon Molla focused on the 5,000m. Three times in a row - from 2016 to 2018 - he won the Ethiopian championships at this distance and he has a fine PB of 12:59.58 over this distance. Molla won a silver medal in the 5,000 m final of the African Championships in 2018. Additionally he produced some strong half marathon performances at that time. He was fifth in the World Half Marathon Championships in 2018 and won the Riyadh Half Marathon in the same year, where he collected more than 250,000 Dollar in prize money. Molla ran a 59:52 PB in the half marathon in Copenhagen in 2022.

GUYE ADOLA

ETHIOPIA

BIRTHDATE: 20.10.1990

PERSONAL BEST: 2:03:46 (Berlin, 2017)

ABBOTT WORLD MARATHON MAJORS

ADDITIONAL MARATHONS

CAREER NOTES:

Guye Adola once again returns to the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON, where he had huge success on two occasions. He ran his PB here in 2017 and won the race four years later. It will be his fourth start at the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON and there is no other marathon where he competed that often.

The Ethiopian caused a major surprise in his marathon debut at the 2017 BMW BERLIN-MARATHON: He clocked an unofficial world debut record of 2:03:46. Taking second place he came closer to beating Kenya’s superstar Eliud Kipchoge than anyone else since 2013. Adola was even leading the Olympic Champion until around 40 k before Kipchoge finally managed to overhaul him and win by just 14 seconds. At that time Guye Adola became the 11th fastest marathon runner ever.

However the marathon newcomer of 2017 had a bumpy ride in the marathon afterwards. Injuries and illnesses repeatedly stopped him. Guye Adola regained his old strength in Valencia in December 2019 with a time of 2:04:42. In 2021 - after the corona lockdowns - he celebrated the biggest victory of his career at the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON after beating Ethiopia's superstar Kenenisa Bekele, among others, in the race. Guye Adola ran 2:05:45 in warm weather conditions, but his rollercoaster ride continued due to injuries. However his last two marathon races were excellent: He was fourth at the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON 2025 and then took the race in Rotterdam this spring with 2:03:54, missing his Berlin PB by just eight seconds.

Guye Adola has a fine half marathon PB of 59:06 from New Delhi in 2014. In the same year he won a bronze medal at the World Half Marathon Championships.

PERSONAL BACKGROUND:

Guye Adola comes from the village which carries his surname: Adola is in the Oromia region of Ethiopia. He started running in 2008 and joined the Addis Abeba based training group. Since then he lives in the capital. His coach is Gemedu Dedefo. This group is currently the strongest marathon group in the world. Olympic marathon champion Tamirat Tola is among the athletes. Most of the runners are managed by Italian Gianni Demadonna. Guye Adola is the eldest of eight children and the only one running. He began running after a younger brother had stopped. After a while he realised he had a future in the sport.

SHURA KITATA

ETHIOPIA

BIRTHDATE: 9.6.1996

PERSONAL BEST: 2:03:59 (Sevilla, 2026)

ABBOTT WORLD MARATHON MAJORS

ADDITIONAL MARATHONS

CAREER NOTES:

Shura Kitata is among the most experienced marathon runners in the elite field of the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON. The race on 27 September will be his 25th marathon. Shura Kitata has won four of his 24 races to date and has finished on the podium in a further ten. This reflects his remarkable consistency.

Kitata has enjoyed great success throughout his long career and was among the world’s strongest marathon runners for several years. His first notable success was a victory at the 2017 Rome Marathon. He then achieved a breakthrough in the same year when he also won the highly competitive Frankfurt Marathon, improving to 2:05:50. He then competed almost exclusively in London and New York for years. His greatest victory came in 2020:He left behind a world-class field in London, winning with 2:05:41 in a specially organised race held during the pandemic. Superstar Eliud Kipchoge suffered his first defeat in seven years in that race. Kitata was subsequently selected for the Olympic Games, which had been postponed by a year. However due to Achilles tendon problems, he withdrew from the race for Olympic gold in Japan after just ten kilometres.

Having impressed with a third-place finish in Frankfurt last year, he achieved a very promising success this February: Shura Kitata won the Seville Marathon and improved his PB by 50 seconds to 2:03:59.
 

PERSONAL BACKGROUND:

Shura Kitata grew up on a farm in a rural area of Ethiopia. He has four sisters and three brothers. His talent was already evident at school. “My teachers and my parents encouraged me to train more and become a runner. But I never thought I would make it this far. I am very happy about it,” said Shura Kitata, who now lives with his family in Addis Ababa, where he also trains. He has three children – two daughters and a son.

DEJENE HAILU

ETHIOPIA

BIRTHDATE: 29.12.2003

PERSONAL BEST: 2:04:15 (Sevilla, 2026)

MARATHONS

CAREER NOTES:

Dejene Hailu focused on the marathon early in his career. 22 years-old he improved to a notable 2:04:15 in Sevilla this February.

Dejene Hailu ran his first international races when he was just 18 years old. In Cape Town, in his first race outside Ethiopia in 2022, he ran a half marathon in 63:44 and finished fifth. Amongst other races this was followed by two 10ks in Spain and France. He won the latter in Villejuif with 29:28. He then focused on the half-marathon distance over the following two years, but did not achieve times of international significance.

Dejene Hailu then ran his marathon debut in Dubai in January 2025. On the extremely flat course he clocked 2:07:03 and finished fifth. It became obvious that the marathon is his strongest event.

Dejene Hailu was unable to improve his PB in the next two marathons in 2025, but this year he made a significant step with his personal best in Seville. In May he also improved his half-marathon PB, finishing sixth in Riga with 61:07.

ERICK SANG

KENYA

BIRTHDATE: 15.9.2000

PERSONAL BEST: 2:04:30 (Hamburg, 2025)

MARATHONS

CAREER NOTES:

Erick Sang is another marathon runner who is still relatively new to international road racing and has already run a couple of impressive races. The 26 year-old Kenyan has done very well in Germany.

Just under four years ago Erick Sang caused a minor sensation in his first race outside Kenya and on his half marathon debut. At the age of 22 he took the Riyadh Half Marathon in Saudi Arabia, clocking 59:50 and breaking the one-hour mark in his debut at the distance. He left very strong competitors behind, including the World Half Marathon bronze medallist Samwel Mailu of Kenya and the world-class Ethiopian runner Muktar Edris.

Two years later Erick Sang – who had initially tried the 1,500 m on the track in Kenya – ran his marathon debut and finished seventh in Amsterdam with 2:07:50. Sang then ran the best race of his career to date in the spring of 2025 at the Hamburg Marathon. He finished third in 2:04:30 and had been among the leaders until 35 k. Prior to the Hamburg Marathon he had improved his half marathon PB to 59:38 in The Hague.

This spring Erick Sang once again put in a strong performance in Rotterdam, finishing sixth in 2:05:34.
 

SELEMON BAREGA

ETHIOPIA

BIRTHDATE: 20.1.2000

PERSONAL BEST: 2:05:00 (Tokio, 2026)

ABBOTT WORLD MARATHON MAJORS

ADDITIONAL MARATHON

CAREER NOTES:

Selemon Barega enjoyed extraordinary success already when he was a very young athlete. The Ethiopian won the 5,000 m final at the World Junior Championships in Bydgoszcz (Poland) in 2016 when he was just 16 years old. A year later, at the age of 17, he qualified for the World Athletics Championships in London and finished fifth in the 5,000 m final. In 2018 Selemon Barega set a magnificent world junior record of 12:43.02 in the 5,000 m in Brussels - a record that still stands today. In 2019 he won the silver medal at the World Championships in Doha over this distance and was awarded the ‘Rising Star Award’ by the international athletics federation ‘World Athletics’.

Then came his greatest triumph in 2021: Selemon Barega won the Olympic gold medal in the 10,000 m in Tokyo. In a tactical race he sensationally beat the two major favourites from Uganda, world record holder Joshua Cheptegei and Jacob Kiplimo. In 2023 Barega finished third in the 10,000 m at the World Championships. At the 2024 Olympics and at the World Championships a year later, he finished sixth in this event on both occasions.

Last year Selemon Barega ran his marathon debut and had instant success: He won in Seville with a fine 2:05:15. In Tokyo in March 2026 he improved his PB to 2:05:00. Following a summer without any major international championships Selemon Barega will now run his first autumn marathon.
 

PERSONAL BACKGROUND:

Selemon Barega grew up in the Gurage region, which lies a good distance south-west of Addis Ababa. He comes from a farming family and has three sisters and four brothers. There were no runners in his area and his parents had no interest in sport. Selemon Barega was expected to study rather than run. There was neither a television nor a radio on the farm, so Barega had no idea of the achievements of Ethiopian runners. Yet he carried on running, joined a club, moved to Addis Ababa, learnt about Haile Gebrselassie and Kenenisa Bekele and admired them and then went on to win his first medals – by which time he had finally convinced his parents. “Running has changed my life,” said Selemon Barega, who initially lived with an uncle in Addis Ababa and now owns a house. He has also accommodated some of his siblings there.

TARESA TOLOSA

ETHIOPIA

BIRTHDATE: 15.6.1998

PERSONAL BEST: 2:05:17 (Hamburg, 2026)

MARATHON

CAREER NOTES:

Taresa Tolosa’s international career began already ten years ago. In 2016 he won the silver medal in the 1,500 m at the World Junior Championships in Bydgoszcz, Poland. In the same year he also finished fifth over this distance at the African Championships in Durban. In the years that followed Taresa Tolosa focused almost exclusively on the 1,500 metres. However apart from a victory at the competitive athletics meeting in Doha in 2018, Tolosa did not achieve any major results over the middle distance. His personal best of 3:34.47 was not fast enough to compete at the very top.

Following the pandemic Taresa Tolosa switched to road running. In 2023 he set his current personal bests over 10 k (27:47) and in the half marathon (61:29). However his time in his marathon debut – which he ran in Hamburg this year in 2:05:17 – was much better compared to his other PBs. In his second race over the classic distance, he will certainly be aiming to improve his personal best at the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON.

TADU ABATE

ÄTHIOPIEN

BIRTHDATE: 11.9.1997

PERSONAL BEST: 2:05:38 (Tokio, 2023)

ABBOTT WORLD MARATHON MAJORS

ADDITIONAL MARATHONS

CAREER NOTES:

Tadu Abate will already run his fourth BMW BERLIN-MARATHON. The Ethiopian has fine memories of the race because he did very well in Berlin. Abate concentrated on the marathon early in his career and over a number of years he constantly ran fine times between 2:05:30 and 2:09:00.

In spring 2018 Tadu Abate ran his marathon debut in Hamburg. At the age of 20 he took second place in 2:06:54, leaving behind a number of very strong runners like Uganda’s Olympic Champion from London 2012, Stephen Kiprotich, and Kenya’s Vincent Kipruto. It was only a year earlier that he first competed internationally, focusing on the half marathon distance for a start. His best performance came in Lisbon where he was third with his current personal best of 60:46. In 2019 he returned to Hamburg. In challenging weather conditions he won the race with a sprint finish, crossing the line in 2:08:25 just one second ahead of fellow-Ethiopian and former Dubai Marathon champion Ayele Abshero. This remains his biggest victory.
 

PERSONAL BACKGROUND:

Tadu Abate was raised in Arsi which is south of Addis Ababa. His parents are farmers.

KENENISA BEKELE

ETHIOPIA

BIRTHDATE: 13. Juni 1982

PERSONAL BEST: 2:01:41 (Berlin, 2019)

ABBOTT WORLD MARATHON MAJORS

ADDITIONAL MARATHONS

CAREER NOTES:

Ethiopia’s running legend Kenenisa Bekele is still active at the age of 44. And occasionally he is able to achieve remarkable results in the marathon. In 2024 he almost caused a sensation when he led the TCS London Marathon in the final stages, but then had to settle for second place. Clocking 2:04:15 as a 41 year-old he achieved his third fastest time and established a world master record that still stands today. With this performance Kenenisa Bekele qualified for the Olympic Marathon for the first time in his career. However in Paris he had to settle for 39th place. A year ago Kenenisa Bekele intended to run the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON. However he decided to pull out because he was not fit enough. Bekele then lined up at the TCS New York City Marathon but did not finish.

Kenenisa Bekele can be considered as the greatest distance runner of all times. Bekele definitely is the number one in track and cross country running. He held the world records for 5000m (12:37.35) and 10,000m (26:17.53) longer than anyone else in history (around 15 years). Bekele won 5000m gold medals at the 2008 Olympics and 2009 World Championships and 10,000m gold medals at the 2004 and 2008 Olympics and 2003, 2005, 2007 and 2009 World Championships plus 11 World Cross Country gold medals.

Kenenisa Bekele ran his much anticipated marathon debut in Paris in 2014. He clocked a 2:05:04 course record, which was the sixth fastest marathon debut at that time. However with regard to his standards only twice did he manage to transform his enormous potential to the marathon in the following years: On both occasions Kenenisa Bekele won the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON and missed the world records by just seconds. In 2016 he improved to 2:03:03, missing the global mark by six seconds. Three years later he clocked a spectacular 2:01:41 and was only two seconds slower than the world record. Had he broken the world record in Berlin he would have been the first runner in athletics history to hold the world records at 5,000 m, 10,000 m and in the marathon simultaneously.

In 2021 Kenenisa Bekele ran two marathons in six weeks. First he was third at the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON in 2:06:47, then he took sixth place in New York with 2:12:52. In 2023 he ran a fast time of 2:04:19 in Valencia.
 

PERSONAL BACKGROUND:

Bekele was born the second of six children in Bekoji, the same hometown of the record-breaking Dibaba sisters, Ejegayehu, Tirunesh and Genzebe, and their aunt Derartu Tulu, plus Olympic marathon champions Gezahegne Abera and Tiki Gelana. Bekele suffered tragedy in January 2005 when his fiancée, 18-year-old Alem Techale, a world youth 1500m champion, died of an apparent heart attack while training with him. He married Ethiopian film actress Danawit Gebregziabher in 2007. They have three children. In 2012, Bekele built a six-lane all-weather track in Sululta, a town 25 minutes from Addis Ababa. He also built a hotel nearby for visiting athletes to stay in.
((*))

TIGST ASSEFA

ETHIOPIA

BIRTHDAY: 3.12.1996

PERSONAL BEST: 2:11:53 (Berlin, 2023)

ABBOTT WORLD MARATHON MAJORS

ADDITIONAL MARATHON

CAREER NOTES:

Tigst Assefa will run the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON for the third time. She produced sensational performances in the two races she ran here. Tigst Assefa was not considered to be among the favorites when she entered the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON 2022. But the Ethiopian then stormed to a sensational course record of 2:15:37 and at that time became the third fastest marathon runner ever. Tigst Assefa had improved her PB by over 18 minutes. A year later she returned and smashed the world record. She improved the time by over two minutes to 2:11:53. It was Tigst Assefa who, because of her performance, made the 2:10:00 barrier a realistic target for women – something no one would previously have thought possible.

Tigst Assefa was originally a middle-distance runner who competed in the 800 m at international athletics meetings. She also won once in Berlin: at the ISTAF in the Olympic Stadium in 2014 she clocked a time of 2:00.16. Her personal best of 1:59.24 in the 800 m was fast, but not good enough to compete at the very top in major international championships. At the 2016 Olympic Games she was eliminated in the heats.

After a two-year break Tigst Assefa switched from the track to the roads in 2018. She first competed at 10k and in the half marathon. Due to the pandemic she had to take another break. When she came back in 2022 she achieved fine PBs at 10k (30:52) and in the half marathon (67:28). But in her marathon debut in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in March 2022 she had to be content with 2:34:01. “But this did not reflect my actual level since I was injured before the race. I did not want to cancel my start and I also wanted to gain some experience,“ said Tigst Assefa.

She then achieved her sensational breakthrough in Berlin in 2022 with 2:15:37 and a year later she broke the world record (2:11:53). Tigst Assefa went on to set two further marathon world records. However these are ‚Women only records’, which the international athletics federation, World Athletics, also recognises. These are times achieved in women-only races – without male pacemakers. In London the elite women’s race is started earlier and the women run separately. Tigst Assefa won there in 2025 with 2:15:50 and again this year with 2:15:41.

Over the past two years the 29-year-old has also won two silver medals in the marathon: at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris and at the 2025 World Championships in Tokyo Tigst Assefa narrowly missed out on victory on both occasions.

PERSONAL BACKGROUND:

Tigst Assefa lives in Addis Abeba and is coached by Gemedu Dedefo. The training group of the coach is currently regarded as the strongest in the world. It looked highly unlikely for some time that Tigst Assefa would be able to run a marathon. As a track runner – particularly when she ran in spikes – but also later on she suffered repeated Achilles tendon injuries. After her half marathon debut in Valencia in 2019 (68:24), the injury was so severe that she could barely stand in the finish area. The doctors predicted the end of her career. “But I did not give up. I wanted to make a comeback and make history,” said Tigst Assefa. After setting the world record in Berlin in 2023 Tigst Assefa dedicated her medal to the late Berlin-based athletes’ manager Christoph Kopp. “Without Christoph, I might not be here. He supported and motivated me, even though I was not one of his athletes at all but belong to a different management team. He told me I should give the marathon a go. Christoph is one of the fathers of my success,” said Tigst Assefa.
 

ROSEMARY WANJIRU

KENYA 

BIRTHDATE: 9.12.1994

PERSONAL BEST: 2:16:14 (Tokyo, 2024)

ABBOTT WORLD MARATHON MAJORS

CAREER NOTES: 

Rosemary Wanjiru returns to the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON as the defending champion. It was a hard-fought victory for the Kenyan a year ago, as she literally battled until she collapsed in the unusually hot conditions. Rosemary Wanjiru held on to a narrow lead of just three seconds to the finish line, where she had to receive medical attention due to exhaustion.

Rosemary Wanjiru’s marathon career got off to an impressive start at the 2022 BMW BERLIN-MARATHON. Back then she finished second and, with a time of 2:18:00, not only achieved a world-class time straight away but also ran the second fastest marathon debut ever at that time.

Half a year later Rosemary Wanjiru celebrated the first major marathon victory of her career: she took the Tokyo Marathon with a big PB of 2:16:28. She then lined up at the World Championships in Budapest as one of the big favourites. However in extreme heat she was unable to win a medal and finished sixth. In March 2024 she confirmed her enormous potential with another personal best of 2:16:14 in Tokyo. After a break due to an injury she finished fifth at the Tokyo Marathon in 2025 with 2:19:57. This was followed by her victory at the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON.

Back in 2018 Rosemary Wanjiru competed at road races in Europe and the USA for the first time. Her half marathon debut in Ras Al Khaimah (United Arab Emirates) in February 2020 was outstanding: straight away Rosemary Wanjiru clocked a very good time of 65:34, finishing third. This remains her personal best. She finished tenth at the 2020 World Half Marathon Championships. She also holds a world-class personal best of 29:50 over 10 k. Furthermore she came fourth in the 10,000 m World Championships’ final in Doha, Qatar, in 2019.

Rosemary Wanjiru now focuses almost exclusively on the marathon.

PERSONAL BACKGROUND:

Rosemary Wanjiru grew up in Nyahururu at high altitude. The town lies in between Nairobi and Eldoret. Still a teenager she moved to Japan after being awarded a scholarship. At the age of 17 she mainly competed in middle distance events and went on to stay in the country for many years. In Japan elite athletes are usually organised through corporate teams that recruit the runners. A number of Kenyan athletes have followed this career path. Rosemary Wanjiru was once inspired by Kenya’s former world-class runner Mary Keitany, who won the World Half Marathon Championship title in 2009 and set a 25 k world record in Berlin in 2010.

 

BEDATU HIRPA

ETHIOPIA

BIRTHDATE: 28.4.1999

PERSONAL BEST: 2:18:27 (Dubai, 2025)

ABBOTT WORLD MARATHON MAJORS

ADDITIONAL MARATHONS

CAREER NOTES:

Bedatu Hirpa is already in her tenth year as a marathon runner, even though she is only 27 years old. After the Ethiopian athlete won the gold medal in the 1,500 m at the 2015 World Youth Championships in Cali, Colombia, aged 16, she made a huge step in terms of distance two years later: A few days after her 18th birthday Bedatu Hirpa ran her marathon debut in Madrid, finishing third in 2:34:47. Later that year she won the Athens Marathon on the extremely challenging original marathon route from Marathon to Athens (2:34:18).

Following her first experiences in the marathon, Bedatu Hirpa never returned to international track competitions. With the exception of two half marathon races in 2019 (PB: 72:11), she focused entirely on the marathon distance. In 2018 she ran on fast, flat courses for the first time and improved significantly: after clocking 2:25:54 in Seville she ran 2:21:32 in Frankfurt. It then took six years for Bedatu Hirpa to beat her personal best: in 2024 she clocked 2:21:09 in Amsterdam.

Around three months later came the best race of her career to date. In January 2025 she won the Dubai Marathon after overtaking her compatriot Dera Dida in the final metres. With a time of 2:18:27 Bedatu Hirpa set her personal best on the extremely flat course in Dubai. A further three months later she also won the Paris Marathon. This year Bedatu Hirpa finished second in Osaka and, with a time of 2:19:54, broke the 2:20:00 barrier for the second time in her career.

PERSONAL BACKGROUND:

Bedatu Hirpa lives in Addis Abeba and is coached by Gemedu Dedefo. Tigst Assefa, Fotyen Tesfay and Dera Dida are among other athletes who belong to the currently strongest marathon training group on the planet.

DERA DIDA

ETHIOPIA

BIRTHDATE: 26.10.1996

PERSONAL BEST: 2:18:32 (Dubai, 2025)

ABBOTT WORLD MARATHON MAJORS

ADDITIONAL MARATHONS

CAREER NOTES:

Dera Dida hat beim BMW BERLIN-MARATHON schon zweimal hochklassige Leistungen gezeigt. 2023 lief sie hier erstmals unter 2:20:00 (2:19:24) und im vergangenen Jahr verpasste sie als Zweite den Sieg haarscharf. Die Äthiopierin mag offensichtlich flache, schnelle Rennen. Schon fünf Mal ist sie auf dem superflachen Kurs des Dubai-Marathons gelaufen.

Nachdem Dera Dida in den ersten Jahren ihrer Karriere, von 2015 bis 2017, hauptsächlich Bahn-Langstrecken gelaufen ist, rannte sie 2018 ihr Marathon-Debüt in Dubai. Noch ohne die leistungsfördernden Carbon-Laufschuhe erzielte sie mit 2:21:45 auf Anhieb eine sehr gute Zeit. Sie bestätigte diese Leistung mit fünften Plätzen bei den Marathonrennen in Frankfurt 2018 und Dubai 2019. Im Frühjahr 2019 überraschte Dera Dida mit einem zweiten Platz bei den extrem stark besetzten Crosslauf-Weltmeisterschaften in Arhus (Dänemark). Bereits 2015 hatte sie bei der Cross-WM Silber im Rennen der Juniorinnen gewonnen.

Als der Dubai-Marathon 2023 erstmals nach den Corona-Lockdowns wieder stattfand, machte Dera Dida daraus eine Familien-Angelegenheit. Nachdem ihr Schwager Abdisa Tola das Männerrennen gewonnen hatte, lief sie rund 15 Minuten später als Siegerin ins Ziel. Dera Dida ist verheiratet mit Tamirat Tola, dem Marathon-Olympiasieger von Paris 2024. „Das war ein sehr emotionaler Augenblick, als ich realisierte, dass Abdisa auch gewonnen hatte“, sagte Dera Dida, die ein Jahr später in Dubai Dritte war und sich 2025 dort als Zweite auf 2:18:32 steigerte. Auf dem letzten Kilometer unter Bauchkrämpfen leidend, wurde sie auf der Zielgeraden in Dubai im Januar noch von ihrer Trainingspartnerin Bedatu Hirpa überholt. Drei Monate später gab es beim Paris-Marathon die gleiche Reihenfolge: Wieder siegte Hirpa wenige Sekunden vor Dida. Auch beim BMW BERLIN-MARATHON verpasste Dera Dida den Sieg vor einem Jahr ganz knapp. Drei Sekunden hinter Rosemary Wanjiru wurde sie wiederum Zweite. In diesem Frühjahr gewann Dera Dida den Kapstadt-Marathon.

PERSONAL BACKGROUND:

Dera Dida wuchs in der Region Arsi südöstlich von Addis Abeba auf. Ihr Vorbild war die äthiopische Ausnahmeläuferin Tirunesh Dibaba. Dida ist mit dem Marathon-Olympiasieger Tamirat Tola verheiratet. Das Paar lebt mit der gemeinsamen Tochter außerhalb der äthiopischen Hauptstadt. Beide werden von Gemedu Dedefo betreut, der als Trainer die zurzeit weltweit stärkste Marathon-Trainingsgruppe coacht. „Meistens trainiere ich mit Tamirat, aber für bestimmte Trainingseinheiten schließe ich mich der Gruppe an. Den Erfolg der anderen Läuferinnen der Gruppe zu sehen, ist motivierend. Einige sind stärker als ich, aber ich will dieses Niveau auch erreichen. Es ist großartig, in solch einer Gruppe trainieren zu können“, sagt Dera Dida. „Nachdem Tamirat Olympiasieger wurde, hat sich unser Leben nicht verändert. Wir bekommen viele Medien-Anfragen - aber wir lehnen alle ab, denn wir haben keine Zeit. Wir müssen trainieren und uns um unsere Tochter kümmern.“

ZEINEBA YIMER

ETHIOPIA

BIRTHDATE : 17.6.1998

PERSONAL BEST: 2:18:47 (Barcelona, 2026)

ABBOTT WORLD MARATHON MAJORS

ADDITIONAL MARATHONS 

CAREER NOTES:

Zeineba Yimer was successful very early in her career. In 2017 she took tenth place in the World Junior Cross Country Championships in Kampala, Uganda. In 2018 she enjoyed a prolific year over the half marathon distance, culminating in a fifth place at the World Half Marathon Championships in Valencia.

During a busy 2019 campaign she impressed on the track winning a 10,000m silver medal at the All-Africa Games and running 30:46.24 in Hengelo. On the road she finished third in the RAK Half Marathon in 65:46 and claimed victory over 15k in Valencia (46:52). Later that year she returned to the Spanish port city and ran a strong time of 2:19:28 in her marathon debut.

In 2020 Zeineba Yimer achieved a fourth place at the World Half Marathon Championships in Gdansk (Poland) and improved to 65:39. She maintained her excellent form by placing fourth in 2:19:54 at the 2020 Valencia Marathon. It was in 2023 when she achieved her biggest career win so far, taking the Barcelona Marathon and smashing the course record with 2:19:44. Later that year she was fourth at the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON with a PB of 2:19:04. She improved this time in Barcelona this spring with 2:18:47.

PERSONAL BACKGROUND:

Zeineba Yimer comes from South Wollo which is in the Amhara region of Ethiopia. She now lives in Addis Ababa and is coached by Getamesay Molla. She was a member of the Dutch NN Running Team of Global Sports Management (Jos Hermens), which was led by Eliud Kipchoge.

BOSENA MULATIE

ETHIOPIA

BIRTHDATE: 21.11.2001

PERSONAL BEST: 2:19:00 (Berlin, 2024)

ABBOTT WORLD MARATHON MAJORS

ADDITIONAL MARATHONS 

CAREER NOTES:

Bosena Mulatie returns to the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON after two years. In 2024 she ran her current personal best of 2:19:00 here. On that occasion she finished third in the race’s 50th edition. It remains the best performance of her career.

However at the age of 24 Bosena Mulatie is still in the first chapter of her marathon career, which she began in Houston at the age of 22 (2:26:59). Prior to that she had clocked good times on the track over 5,000 and 10,000 m (14:53.15 and 30:17.77 respectively). For the past two years she has been focusing exclusively on road races. In the half marathon she has so far achieved a personal best of 65:46, which suggests she could probably run the marathon in under 2:19:00.

MISGANE ALEMAYEHU

ETHIOPIA 

BIRTHDATE: 23.9.2004

PERSONAL BEST: 2:19:08 (Paris, 2026)

MARATHON RACES

CAREER NOTES:

Misgane Alemayehu is one of the youngest runners in the elite field of the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON. She will turn 22 just a few days before the start of the race. Nevertheless she already has a personal best of under 2:20:00.

Misgane Alemayehu’s international career began in early 2024 when aged 19 she finished second in the Dubai Half Marathon (71:43). It took well over a year before she reappeared at an international race: Misgane Alemayehu ran her marathon debut at the age of 20 in Changchun, China. In that race, in which no woman has ever run under 2:30:00, she crossed the finish line in 2:39:35. She produced a very different result in her second marathon: Misgane Alemayehu won in Málaga and improved massively, by around a quarter of an hour, to 2:24:43.

Another significant improvement followed in April: In Paris Misgane Alemayehu finished second in a strong field with 2:19:08. On the flat course of the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON she might well improve again.

BEKELECH GUDETA

ETHIOPIA 

BIRTHDATE: 11.10.1997

PERSONAL BEST: 2:19:39 (Seoul, 2026)

ABBOTT WORLD MARATHON MAJORS

ADDITIONAL MARATHONS

CAREER NOTES:

Bekelech Gudeta started her international career ten years ago, initially focusing mainly on the half marathon distance. In 2018 she achieved a notable success: at the World Half Championships in Valencia she finished eighth.

A year later she ran her marathon debut. Over the classic distance, on which she has increasingly focused over the years, she achieved a breakthrough in 2022: In May she won the Prague Marathon with 2:22:56. Although she went on to win five more marathons the Prague race is arguably her greatest victory to date. Bekelech Gudeta ran her fastest time this March in Seoul where she finished second in 2:19:39, breaking the 2:20:00 barrier for the first time.
 

MANON TRAPP

FRANCE

BIRTHDATE: 1.8.2000

PERSONAL BEST: 2:23:38 (Sevilla, 2025)

ABBOTT WORLD MARATHON MAJORS

ADDITIONAL MARATHONS

CAREER NOTES:

Manon Trapp comes to the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON as the national record holder of France. The 26-year-old only took up running in 2017, having previously competed as a judoka. She initially focused on cross-country races and shorter road races, as well as middle-distance and long-distance track events. On the track however her personal bests of 4:17.38 (1,500 m) and 15:19.24 (5,000 m) were not fast enough to achieve her ultimate goal of competing at the Olympics.

But Manon Trapp enjoyed immediate success over the longer road distances. On her half-marathon debut in Reims in 2019 she won the race and set a French junior women’s record of 75:48. At the 2023 World Half Marathon Championships in Riga she finished 29th. She has since improved her time over this distance to 70:56. However Manon Trapp is much stronger in the marathon. She made her marathon debut in Valencia in 2023 with a time of 2:25:48. She was selected as a reserve for the Olympic Games in Paris but did not feature in the marathon. In December, she then finished seventh at the European Cross Country Championships in Antalya.

In February 2025 she celebrated her greatest success to date: Manon Trapp was runner-up in the Seville Marathon and ran a French record of 2:23:38 which still stands today.

PERSONAL BACKGROUND:

Manon Trapp was a successful judoka as a teenager. She holds a black belt and finished ninth at the French Championships. In 2017 she took up running, initially jogging in the woods. At first she tried to combine judo and running, but then decided to focus on the latter. Her main goal is to compete in the marathon at the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. Manon Trapp studied geography and mountain sciences at the University of Savoie Mont-Blanc.
 

LUDWINA CHEPNGETICH

KENYA

BIRTHDATE: 8.4.1998

PERSONAL BEST: Debüt

CAREER NOTES:
Ludwina Chepngetich will run her debut over the classic distance at the BMW BERLIN- MARATHON. She has enjoyed a string of successes in the half marathon, which bodes well for a strong marathon debut.

The Kenyan competed in her first international race outside her home country in September 2021. She achieved a good result straight away, as the then 23-year-old finished second in the Gothenburg Half Marathon. With a time of 70:34 she was just four seconds behind the winner.

Following her good debut Ludwina Chepngetich focused on the ‘half distance’. She achieved comparatively much better results over this distance than in shorter races. In the years that followed she won several international races. In 2022 she triumphed in The Hague with her current PB of 67:30, in 2025 she took the Rome Ostia race (68:20) and this spring she won in Madrid (68:31). At the GENERALI BERLIN HALF MARATHON in 2023 Ludwina Chepngetich was fifth with 68:20.

PERSONAL BACKGROUND:
Ludwina Chepngetich comes from the Nandi region of Kenya and grew up in the village of Kipsergech, which lies south of Eldoret at an altitude of just under 2,000 metres. She took up running whilst still at primary school. Her role models were two middle-distance runners: Pamela Jelimo, the 800 m Olympic Champion at the 2008 Beijing Games, and Janet Chepkosgei. She now lives in Kapsabet and is coached by Joel Kipleting. “My goal is to run under 2:25:00 in my marathon debut in Berlin,” says Ludwina Chepngetich, who hopes to inspire the next generation of runners with strong marathon performances in the future.

ALISA VAINIO

FINLAND

BIRTHDATE: 16.11.1997

PERSONAL BEST: 2:20:39 (Sevilla, 2026)

ABBOTT WORLD MARATHON MAJORS

ADDITIONAL MARATHONs

CAREER NOTES:

There is probably no other marathon runner who competes in so many races over the classic distance in such a short space of time and is as successful as the European champion Alisa Vainio.

As a teenager Alisa Vainio initially competed in long distance track events and the 3,000 m steeplechase. She ran her first marathon at the age of just 17. Just six days after a steeplechase race at the traditional match between Sweden and Finland, she won the race in Lappeenranta (Finland) and set a European best of 2:33:24 for the under 20 age group. After becoming Finnish marathon champion in 2018 and competing at the 2019 World Championships in Doha (26th position) she focussed much more on the classic distance once the pandemic was over. It is clearly the marathon distance over which she has achieved her best performances.

Two years ago Alisa Vainio improved her PB by almost two minutes at the BMW BERLIN MARATHON, clocking 2:25:36. From late summer 2025 onwards she surprised with consistently top-class performances. Alisa Vainio ran no fewer than five marathons within seven months. In September 2025 the Finnish runner finished fifth at the World Championships in Tokyo as the top European and then went on to set three consecutive Finnish national records: 2:23:07 in Vantaa (Finland/1st), 2:20:48 in Valencia (4th) and 2:20:39 on her victory in Seville in February. In Paris in April she was sixth in 2:21:35. Alisa Vainio is now the fastest Scandinavian runner of all times, improving the mark of former world record-holder Ingrid Kristiansen (Norway/2:21:06).

At the European Championships in Birmingham in August she ran a solo race to victory on a very tough course, setting a European Championships’ record of 2:22:26. Four weeks later she ran another marathon and won the Finnish Championships (2:27:47).

PERSONAL NOTES:

Alisa Vainio’s next major goal is the Olympic marathon in Los Angeles in 2028. The 28-year-old, who used to play ice hockey and was a speed skater as well, trains mainly at home in Finland. Her role model is Andreas Almgren, the Swedish European half marathon record holder and European 10,000 m champion. Alisa Vainio is not related to Martti Vainio, the last of the great Finnish long distance stars, who competed in the 1970ies and 80ies.

Sebastian Hendel

Germany / Marathon Team Berlin

Birthdate: 1.12.1995

Personal Best: 2:07:33 (Berlin, 2024)

Abbott World Marathon Majors

Additional Marathons

Career Notes

Sebastian Hendel caused a surprise when he was the fastest German runner of the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON 2024. He improved his PB significantly to 2:07:33 and moved up to fifth place on the German all-time list.

However in the wake of his greatest success things no longer went well for Sebastian Hendel. Due to illness he had missed the spring season in 2025 and had then focused on the BMW BERLIN MARATHON. However the unusually hot weather did not suit him. As a number of other elite athletes he withdrew from the race, stopping after 30 k. At his second attempt at the Valencia Marathon in December he did not finish as well. Hip problems forced him to withdraw. These persisted throughout the first half of 2026 so that he was unable to compete in either the GENERALI BERLIN HALF MARATHON or the Hamburg Marathon.

Sebastian Hendel is now looking to make another attempt at the BMW BERLIN MARATHON. Berlin is usually a good place for 30 year-old. It was here that he set his personal bests in the three major road distances. Back in 2021, at the third Berlin Invitational 10 km race – one of the few races held worldwide during the pandemic lockdowns – he ran a personal best of 28:35 that still stands today. Two years later he improved his PB to 61:52 at the GENERALI BERLIN HALF MARATHON, and in 2024 he ran 2:07:33 at the BMW BERLIN MARATHON.

Sebastian Hendel’s strengths clearly are the long distance road events. He showed his best performances so far in the half marathon and the marathon. But originally he ran middle and long distances on the track. For some years now his focus is on the roads. Running his debut at the half marathon distance he took second place at the 2021 German championships in Hamburg with 62:28. It took over a year before he then ran his first marathon in Munich with 2:10:37. He finally broke 2:10:00 when he ran 2:08:51 at the Hamburg Marathon in 2024. Then he further improved at the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON.

Personal Background

Sebastian Hendel started running in an athletics club at a young age. But it was only when his father Udo Hendel took over coaching him that he prospered. At local and then regional level he started winning track, cross country and road championship races. After completing his A levels in 2014 he received a scholarship for sport at New York’s Iona College. There he met his wife, Croatia’s long distance runner Kristina Bozic. Before their son was born in October 2016, they stopped their scholarships in New York. Since then the family lives near Zwickau, Germany. Kristina Hendel has a marathon PB of 2:27:29 and competes for Germany since 2022.

Haftom Welday

Germany / TB Hamburg Eilbeck

Birthdate: 13.3.1990

Personal Best: 2:08:13 (Barcelona, 2026)

Abbot World Marathon Majors

Additional Marathons

Career Notes

Haftom Welday has not run any other race over the classic distance as often as the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON. On 27 September he will be making his fifth appearance at Germany’s most spectacular road race. He ran his debut here and clocked his first sub 2:10:00 in Berlin. Most recently however he did not finish on two occasions. In 2024 he faltered after an extremely fast early pace and withdrew; in 2025, like many other elite runners, he gave up due to unusually high temperatures.

When running events started to come back in 2021 after the Corona lockdowns Haftom Welday achieved a breakthrough in Berlin: He improved by over four minutes at the GENERALI BERLIN HALF MARATHON. Then he came back to the capital and ran a 2:13:47 debut at the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON.

One year later he improved his marathon PB significantly in Berlin, running 2:09:06. At that time he was number six on the German alltime list. Welday was selected for the World Championships’ marathon in Budapest in 2023. In hot weather conditions he achieved a fine 14th place and was the fastest German. However despite improving to 2:08:24 in Valencia later in the year he did not manage to qualify for the Olympic Games. A sub 2:07:05 was necessary for selection.

This year Haftom Welday ran a 2:08:13 PB in Barcelona in March. It was already his third sub 2:08:30 time, which suggests that he might be in for bigger improvement on Berlin’s fast course.

Personal Background

Haftom Welday had Eritrean citizenship but grew up in Ethiopia’s Tigray region. “I liked to play football and was not fond of running at all“, recalled Haftom Welday, who fled the region in 2014. Coming through the Sahara and then crossing the Mediterranean Sea he arrived in Germany and lived in Pattensen near Hannover. “I realised that I was able to run fast when I had to run three kilometres to catch a bus. Then I did the Deutsches Sportabzeichen (a popular German sporting certificate) and Friedrich Weber, who recorded my performances for the Sportabzeichen, spotted my talent and supported me. At that time I was 25,“ reports Haftom Welday on his website. At the end of 2021 Haftom Welday moved to Hamburg together with his wife and the three children. In 2022 he received German citizenship. His dream is to run the marathon at the Olympic Games. To reach this goal he joined the extremely competitive training group of Gemedu Dedefo in Addis Ababa. The renowned coach takes care of a large number of world-class runners, among them the Olympic marathon champion Tamirat Tola.

Aaron Bienenfeld

Germany / Düsseldorf Athletics

Birthdate: 25.9.1997

Personal best: 2:08:47 (Hamburg, 2026)

Marathon Race

Career Notes

Aaron Bienenfeld will run the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON with a little “delay“. He had originally planned to make his debut over the 42.195 km here a year ago. However he was then offered a last-minute opportunity to compete in the 10,000 m at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo. Bienenfeld finished 23rd at these championships. Aaron Bienenfeld postponed his marathon debut until this spring. He ran an excellent race in Hamburg at the end of April. With a time of 2:08:47 he matched exactly the former German record of Jörg Peter, which stood for over two decades. With Peter he currently shares tenth place in the list of the fastest German runners of all time. It was also the fastest marathon debut ever by a German runner.

With his performances over shorter distances Aaron Bienenfeld had already shown that he had the potential for a good marathon. However the fact that he achieved this so successfully on his debut gives cause for hope that he will continue to improve.

In the early years of his career Aaron Bienenfeld mainly competed in middle- and long-distance track events. During a pandemic lockdown in November 2020 he then ran an elite-only half marathon race in Dresden. Finishing second behind Richard Ringer in 62:33 he achieved a remarkable improvement of just under six minutes. After that however the focus returned to the track and on occasion cross-country running. In 2023 he ran the  GENERALI BERLIN HALF MARATHON and improved to 61:51. Five months later Bienenfeld finished 32nd at the World Half Marathon Championships in Riga with 61:49. Further personal bests in the half marathon and over 10,000 m in 2024 and 2025 (61:45 and 27:42.83 respectively) laid a very solid foundation for his successful marathon debut in Hamburg.

Personal Background

Aaron Bienenfeld was running under the radar for a long time since he lives mainly in the USA since early 2018. The athlete from Frankfurt (Main) had received a running scholarship and went on to study marketing at the University of Cincinnati and later in Oregon, a mecca for US long-distance running. He ran most of his races in the US where he developed strongly.

Kristina Hendel

Germany / Marathon Team Berlin

Birthday: 13.5.1996

Personal Best: 2:27:29 (Hamburg, 2022)

Marathons

Carreer notes

Kristina Hendel’s most successful year was in 2022. After improving to 2:27:29 in Hamburg she was a member of the German team that won the gold medal in the European Cup, the team competition which is included in the marathons at the European Championships. She finished 20th in this race in Munich.

Kristina Hendel mainly ran long distances on the track during the first part of her career. But she then achieved better results on the road. In October 2021 she ran her marathon debut in Essen and won the race with 2:27:31. In spring 2022 she improved her half marathon PB in Istanbul to 70:38. A few weeks later she took a fine fifth place in the Hamburg Marathon (2:27:29). Then she ran the European Championships’ race in Munich. For a very long time she suffered of a muscle problem in her upper leg. Again this year she was not yet able to achieve times in the region of her PBs.

Personal background

Kristina Hendel comes from Croatia and is eligible to compete for Germany since July 2022. She is married to marathon runner Sebastian Hendel, who has a PB of 2:07:33. Both have a son and live in Reichenbach im Vogtland in the county of Sachsen and near to the Czech border.

Esther Pfeiffer

Germany / Düsseldorf Athletics

Birthday: 4.9.1997

Personal Best: 2:37:00 (Cologne, 2023)

Marathons

Carreer notes

Esther Pfeiffer is the third fastest German half marathon runner ever and additionally she is the national number two in the 10k alltime list. Returning to the marathon after three years she could move up the marathon rankings significantly as well and become one of Germany’s fastest athletes over the classic distance. Her half marathon PB of 67:25 set in the spring at the GENERALI BERLIN HALF MARATHON, suggests that she could improve by around 15 minutes. Her 10 k time of 30:45 which she ran in April is even a little stronger. In early August Esther Pfeiffer won the adidas Runners City Night 10 k race in Berlin with 31:20.

So far the half marathon distance has been Esther Pfeiffer's most successful event. Initially she competed in the 800 and 1,500 m on the track. However she was not fast enough over the middle distances to have any prospects at national or even international level. Three and a half years ago Esther Pfeiffer then ran her half marathon debut in Cologne and won with 75:53. Within three and a half years Esther Pfeiffer has improved by over eight minutes to 67:25.

Esther Pfeiffer made her national breakthrough at the beginning of 2024. She was fifth in Seville with 70:24 and qualified for the European Championships in Rome in the summer. In Italy she impressed in her first major international championship, finishing 18th as the third-fastest German. Esther Pfeiffer won the silver medal with the German team at these championships. She was the fastest German at the GENERALI BERLIN HALF MARATHON in 2025 and 2026, when she placed seventh and fifth respectively.

Esther Pfeiffer has run one marathon: In October 2023 she won in Cologne with 2:37:00 and became German champion. However there was no significant national or international elite field at that race.

Personal background

Esther Pfeiffer, formerly known by her maiden name Esther Jacobitz, is married to Hendrik Pfeiffer, who has been one of Germany’s top marathon runners for many years and who also coaches his wife on occasion. Her talent for running was first spotted back in nursery school: “My nursery teacher recommended athletics to me as I was never caught when we played tag,” says Esther Pfeiffer. If the psychology student can transform her potential to the marathon distance, she has a chance of qualifying for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. “It is my dream, of course, to run the marathon at the Olympics – and ideally, Hendrik and I will both be competing in Los Angeles.”

Laura Hottenrott

Germany / Düsseldorf Athletics

Geburtstag: 14.5.1992

Persönliche Bestzeit: 2:24:32 (Valencia, 2023)

Abbott World Marathon Majors

Marathons

Carreer notes

Laura Hottenrott fulfilled her lifelong dream in 2024 by competing in the marathon at the Olympic Games. In Paris, on a tough course and against extremely high-calibre competition as well as high temperatures, she finished 38th in 2:31:19. This summer she was the best German runner in the marathon at the European Championships in Birmingham, finishing 16th. Despite the very short interval between the two races, she now intends to compete in the BMW BERLIN MARATHON for the second time since 2023. On that occasion she finished 23rd.

The former 3,000 and 5,000 m track runners focused on road running from 2017 onwards. She achieved much better results on the roads compared to the track. Laura Hottenrott also does mountain running and she took the Jungfrau Marathon in Switzerland on a couple of occasions. Acutally she did win it again in early September this year. The race is almost 2,000 m uphill.

In 2017 Laura Hottenrott ran her marathon debut in Frankfurt with 2:34:43. She improved this time to 2:33:01 in Sevilla in 2018 and qualified for the European Championships in Berlin in the same year. However in he capital she did not finish in high temperatures.

In 2020 she was a member of the German team that surprisingly took the bronze medal at the World Half Marathon Championships in Gdynia, Poland. Laura Hottenrott contributed with a 26th place in a personal best of 70:49 to this success.

Running the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON in 2023 she was not fast enough to qualify for the Olympic Games in 2024. However she caused a big surprise when she improved to 2:24:32 little more than two months later in Valencia. This times she managed to secure selection for the Olympics.

Personal background

Laura Hottenrott studied biology in the US with the help of a scholarship. She then studied at Cologne’s sports university and finished her doctoral thesis (training science) at the university of Bochum. She lives and trains in Kassel where she also works as a lecturer.

The start of the racing wheelchair and handbike categories shortly before the impressive field of over 55,000 marathon runners is one of the special highlights of the marathon weekend. High speeds and top times are to be expected when the top-class elite set off on the classic distance of 42.195 kilometres.

Wheelchair Men

Marcel Hug, SUI

16.1.1986

Personal best:
1:17:47 (Oita, JPN 2021)

Hug is the most successful male wheelchair marathon athlete of modern times. Hug was born with spina bifida and grew up on a farm in Pfyn, Thurgau, Switzerland. He is the youngest of four brothers and started competing at 10. Nicknamed the „Silver Bullet“ due to his helmet. He won ten times in Berlin (since 2011), additionally he achieved numerous wins at the other AbbottWMM marathons (Tokyo, Boston, London, Chicago, New York City) and is the leading contender in the yearly AWMM overall ranking (until 2023 bi-annually).
 

Jetze Plat, NED

10. 6. 1991

Personal best:
1:26:49 (Berlin 2025)

Jetze Plat was born with two stunted legs. In 1995, Plat started using a handcycle, to cycle to school. Later he started practising the sport para-cycling. Since 2013 he is coached by Guido Vroemen. He won the paratriathlon events at the Paralympics in Rio (2016), Tokio (2021) and Paris 2024 and was one of the flag bearers for the Netherlands during the opening ceremony of the 2020 Summer Paralympics. Plat won the handcycling marathon at the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON four times between 2014 and 2019, in 2015 he came in 2nd. In his first attempt in the wheelchair category he placed 4th at the 2022 BMW BERLIN-MARATHON. Last year he placed third.

Wheelchair Women:

Catherine Debrunner, SUI

11.4.1995

Personal best:
1:34:16 (Berlin 2024)

Swiss athlete Catherine Debrunner is currently the world’s most successful racing wheelchair athlete. She has been competing since 2005 and, until a few years ago, enjoyed success primarily on the track, before competing in her first marathon four years ago and winning straight away. That was at the 2022 BMW BERLIN MARATHON, where she outpaced her compatriot and serial winner Manuela Schär, as well as the American Susannah Scaroni, in the final sprint. A few weeks later, she also triumphed at the New York City Marathon. She went on to win both of her subsequent races in Berlin (2023, 2024) and set a world record of 1:34:16 in 2024.
At the 2024 Paralympics in Paris, she was among the most successful medallists of any nation: five golds and one silver (100m) across distances from 100 to 5,000 metres on the track as well as in the marathon.

Catherine Debrunner comes from the canton of Thurgau and has been confined to a wheelchair since birth due to a tumour on her spine. However, she did not let this hold her back and enjoyed being active in the great outdoors from a young age. At the age of 7, she attended a sports camp for children and young people in Nottwil, where participants could try out a wide variety of sports. It was at this camp that she met coach Paul Odermatt, who also advises the world-class para-athlete Marcel Hug. Odermatt invited her to an athletics training session in Frauenfeld, where he put her in a racing wheelchair for the first time.
Catherine Debrunner has been a professional athlete since 2022 and usually trains abroad with the Dutch coach Arno Mul. She is the number one favourite to win this year’s 52nd BMW BERLIN MARATHON and still has the chance to win the overall AWMM standings, where – as of 29 August 2026 – she holds a narrow lead over Susannah Scaroni (USA).
 

Eden Rainbow-Cooper, GBR 

17.5.2001

Personal best: 1:30:51 (Boston 2025)

In recent years, Eden Rainbow-Cooper has developed from a successful junior sprinter into a world-class athlete on the marathon circuit. Her biggest achievements to date on the marathon circuit are her victories at the Boston Marathon in 2024 and 2026. In Berlin, she finished second behind Catherine Debrunner in 2023 and returned to the podium in 2025, finishing third. Eden Rainbow-Cooper was born with Caudal Regression Syndrome (sacral agenesis), a very rare congenital condition in which part or all of the sacrum is missing and which can lead to complete paralysis of the lower limbs. She is from Portsmouth, Hampshire.

Manuela Schär, SUI

5.12.1984

Personal best:
1:35:08 (Berlin 2025)

Manuela Schär is one of the world’s most successful wheelchair marathon racers. To date, she has won three stages of the Abbott World Marathon Series.
Manuela Schär comes from Altishofen (Canton of Lucerne). Five years after an accident at the age of nine (on a playground), she took up competitive wheelchair racing at the age of 14. Like the other highly successful Swiss competitive wheelchair athletes, she too benefits from the facilities provided by the Paraplegic Centre in Nottwil, which is also located in the Canton of Lucerne.
 

Handbike division

1st row at the start:

Men:

Daniel Ulmann
Heinz Frei
Michael Jörgensen

Women:

Jady Malavizzi
Anne Vosgerau
Julia Dierkesmann

Wheelchair division T 53/54

Wheelchair division T 51/52

Depending on the number of participants. If more than 3 competitors schedule will be adjusted
 

Handbike division
Men/Women

Streckenrekord

Additional Bonus for three divisions
Handbike H1/H2, H3, H4

Depending on the number of participants

Bisherige Sieger in Berlin / Männer
Berlin winners /men

1981 Georg Freund AUT 2:08:44

1982 Bosse Lindquist SWE 2:03:10

1983 Gregor Golombek GER 1:55:10

1984 Bosse Lindquist SWE 2:16:32

1985 Heinz Frei SUI 1:57:28

1986 Heinz Frei SUI 1:46:44

1987 Gregor Golombek GER 1:46:52

1988 Markus Pilz GER 1:52:08

1989 Heinz Frei SUI 1:40:11

1990 Jean Marc Berset SUI 1:34:41

1991 Heinz Frei SUI WR, 1:27:53

1992 Heinz Frei SUI 1:29:41

1993
1. Heinz Frei SUI WR, 1:27:16
2. Franz Nietlispach SUI 1:34:0
3. Philippe Couprie FRA 1:35:25

1994
1. Heinz Frei SUI WR, 1:22:12
2. Franz Nietlispach SUI 1:27:46
3. Markus Pilz GER 1:31:20

1995
1. Heinz Frei SUI 1:22:49
2. Franz Nietlispach SUI 1:26:12
3. G. Vandamme BEL 1:35:17

1996
1. Heinz Frei SUI 1:25:34
2. Franz Nietlispach SUI 1:26:33
3. Jean Jeannot FRA 1:33:09

1997
1. Heinz Frei SUI 1:21:39
2. Franz Nietlispach SUI 1:24:4
3. Ben Lucas NZL 1:30:24

1998
1. Heinz Frei SUI 1:24:19
2. Thomas Gerlach GER 1:27:25
3. Winfried Sigg GER 1:27:44

1999
1. Heinz Frei SUI 1:23:57
2. Joel Jeannot FRA 1:23:59
3. Vladimir Kiselev RUS 1:24:13

2000
1. Heinz Frei SUI 1:26:30
2. Vladimir Kiselev RUS 1:36:40
3. R.P. Verdaguer ESP 1:36:43

2001
1. Heinz Frei SUI 1:30:24
2. Joel Jeannot FRA 1:30:24
3. Sergey Shilov RUS 1:35:55

2002
1. Heinz Frei SUI 1:28:27
2. Jun Hiromichi JPN 1:28:58
3. Pierre Fairbank FRA 1:28:59

2003
1. Joel Jeannot FRA 1:25:19
2. Heinz Frei SUI 1:25:21
3. Ernst van Dyk RSA 1:31:46

2004
1. Thomas Gerlach DEN 1:33:49
2. Pierre Samuelsson SWE 1:44:34
3. Daniel Kukla SVK 1:46:26

2005
1. Heinz Frei SUI 1:28:32
2. Marcel Hug SUI 1:28:33
3. Franz Nietlispach SUI 1:30:17

2006
1. Heinz Frei SUI 1:29:30
2. Marcel Hug SUI 1:29:35
3. Roger Puigbo Verdaguer ESP 1:30:26

2007

1. Masazumi Soejima JPN 1:26:50

2. Heinz Frei SUI 1:32:22

3. Marcel Hug SUI 1:32:22

2008
1. Heinz Frei SUI 1:27:53
2. Masazumi Soejima JPN 1:28:39
3. Marcel Hug SUI 1:39:01

2009
1. Heinz Frei SUI 1:26:38
2. Masazumi Soejima JPN 1:31:41
3. Tomasz Hamerlak POL 1:39:30

2010
1. Masazumi Soejima JPN 1:28:46
2. Kota Hokinoue JPN 1:30:08
3. Marcel Hug SUI 1:35:58

2011
1. Marcel Hug SUI 1:29:31
2. Heinz Frei SUI 1:29:32
3. Brett McArthur AUS 1:35:04

2012
1. Marcel Hug SUI 1:29:43
2. Heinz Frei SUI 1:29:48
3. Rafael Botello Jiminez ESP 1:32:54

2013
1. Heinz Frei SUI 1:31:00
2. Marcel Hug SUI 1:31:03
3. Hiroyuki Yamamoto SUI 1:34:28

2014
1. Kota Hokinue JPN 1:32:25
2. Heinz Frei SUI 1:36:12
3. Tobias Lötscher SUI 1:37:21

2015
1. David Weir GBR 1:27:30
2. Heinz Frei SUI 1:30:38
3. Kota Hokinue JPN 1:30:39

2016

1. Marcel Hug SUI 1:29:51

2. Ernst VanDyk RSA 1:29:53

3. Hiroshi Nikida JPN 1:29:53

2017

1.Marcel Hug SUI 1:29:03
2.Kota Hokinue JPN 1:32:42
3.Ryota Hoshida JPN 1:32:43

2018
1.Brent Lakatos CAN 1:29:41
2.Johnboy Smith GBR 1:29:44
3.Marcel Hug SUI 1:29:44

2019
1.Marcel Hug SUI 1:28:09
2.Davis Weir GBR 1:31:45
3.Brent Lakatos CAN 1:31:46

2020 Rennen fiel wg. Corona-Pandemie aus
Race cancelled due to Corona pandemic

2021
1.Marcel Hug SUI 1:24:03
2.Daniel Romanchuk USA 1:24:47
3.Brent Lakatos CAN 1:29:54

2022
1.Marcel Hug SUI 1:24:56
2.Daniel Romanchuk USA 1:28:54
3.David Weir GBR 1:29:02

2023
1.Marcel Hug SUI 1:23:07
2.Daniel Romanchuk USA 1:30:16
3.David Weir GBR 1:30:17

2024
1.Marcel Hug SUI 1:27:18
2.David Weir GBR 1:29:05
3.Geert Schipper NED 1:30:53

2025
1.Marcel Hug SUI 1:21:46
2.David Weir GBR 1:27:55
3.Jetze Plaat NED 1:28:49

Bisherige Sieger in Berlin / Frauen
Berlin winners / women

1983 Gabriele Beyer GER 2:51:12

1984 Gabriele Beyer GER 2:47:14

1985 Gabriele Schild SUI 2:33:51

1986 Connie Hansen DEN 2:32:23

1987 Margit Quell GER 2:21:29

1988 Gabriele Schild SUI 2:52:29

1989 Daniela Jutzeler SUI 1:55:23

1990 Daniela Jutzeler SUI 1:57:47

1991 Barbara Maier GER 1:51:50

1992 
1. Janette Jansen NED 1:42:07
 2. Lily Anggreny GER 1:42:29
 3. Connie Hansen DEN 1:42:46

1993 
1. Lily Anggreny GER 1:50:34
2. Tanni Grey GBR 1:54:19
3. Daniela Jutzeler SUI 1:56:19

1994 
1. Louise Sauvage AUS 1:57:14
2. Lily Anggreny GER 1:57:17
3. A. Emmenberger SUI 2:03:20

1995 
1. Lily Anggreny GER 1:58:38
 2. R. Hill GBR 1:59:01
3. Tanni Grey GBR 2:00:19

1996 
1. Monica Wetterström SWE 1:54:00
 2. Lily Anggreny GER 1:57:22
3. A. Emmenberger SUI 2:01:44

1997 
1. Louise Sauvage AUS 1:49:58
2. Edith Hunkeler SUI 1:49:59
3. Tanni Grey GBR 1:51:36

1998 1. 
Edith Hunkeler SUI 1:47:53
2. Monika Wetterström SWE 1:50:04
3. Francesca Porcellato ITA 1:50:32

1999 
1. Monica Wetterström SWE 1:48:12
2. Lily Anggreny GER 1:48:16
3. Sandra Graf SUI 1:48:23

2000 
1. Sandra Graf SUI 1:52:31
2. Lily Anggreny GER 1:52:27
3. Gabriele Schild SUI 2:02:03

2001
1. Edith Hunkeler SUI 1:47:46
2. Yvonne Sehmisch GER 1:51:21
3. Francesca Porcellato ITA 1:53:07

2002 
1. Edith Hunkeler SUI 1:45:5
 2. Sandra Graf SUI 1:46:11
3. Yvonne Sehmisch GER 1:49:55

2003 
1. Yvonne Sehmisch GER 1:52:05
 2. Francesca Porcellato ITA 1:52:06
3. Edith Hunkeler SUI 1:52:07

2004 
Aufgrund der Überschneidung mit den Paralympics keine Frauen am Start.
 Because of the Paralympics taking place at the same time there were no women in the race. 

2005 
1. Edith Hunkeler SUI 1:49:46
2. Sandra Graf SUI 1:49:51
3. Yvonne Sehmisch GER 1:52:33

2006 
1. Sandra Graf SUI 1:42:48
2. Simone Buess SUI 2:12:32
3. Iolanda Gil Marfa ESP 2:30:04

2007 
1. Simone Buess SUI 1:48:50
2. Sandra Hager SUI 2:00:52
3. Jacqui Kapinowski USA 2:35:20

2008 
1. Sandra Hager SUI 2:04:18
2. Inga Orlowski GER 2:11:23
3. Jacqui Kapinowski USA 2:44:25

2009 
1. Sandra Graf SUI 1:39:29

2. Shelly Woods GBR 1:40:40
3. Yvonne Sehmisch GER 1:55:35

2010 
1. Tsuchida Wakako JPN 1:46:15
2. Sandra Graf SUI 1:46:16
3. Sandra Hager SUI 2:00:16

2011 
1. Edith Hunkeler SUI 1:45:2 

2. Sandra Graf SUI 1:45:21

 3. Francesca Porcellata ITA 1:46:47

2012 
1. Sandra Graf SUI 1:46:19

 2. Francesca Porcatello ITA 1:56:37

 3. Yvonne Sehmisch GER 2:06:26

2013 
1. Manuela Schär SUI 1:41:39

 2. Patricia Keller SUI 2:00:28

2014 
1. Shelly Woods GBR 1:47:56

 2. Margriet Vandenbroek NED 2:02:57

 3. Annika Zetterlund SWE 4:40:22

2015 
1. Nataliya Kocherova RUS 1:50:36

 2. Akzhana, Abdikarimova RUS 1:54:50

 3. Natalie Simanowski GER 2:10:46

2016 
1. Manuela Schär SUI 1:43:00

 2. Sandra Graf SUI 1:46:29

 3. Margriet van den Broek NED 1:52:05

2017 
1.Manuela Schär SUI 1:40:05

 2.Sandra Graf SUI 1:45:20

 3.Annika Zeyen GER 1:51:02

2018 
1.Manuela Schär SUI 1:36:53

 2.Susannah Scaraoni USA 1:41:44

 3.Sandra Graf SUI 1:42:55

2019 
1.Manuela Schär SUI 1:38:07

 2.Amanda McGrory USA 1:42:05

 3.Madison De Rozario AUS 1:42:09

2020 Rennen fiel wg. Corona-Pandemie aus 
Race cancelled due to Corona pandemic

2021 
1.Manuela Schär SUI 1:37:31

 2.Tatyana McFadden USA 1:38:54

 3.Aline Dos Santos Rocha BRA 1:41:39

2022 
1.Catherine Debrunner SUI 1:36:47

 2.Manuela Schär SUI 1:36:50

 3.Susannah Scaroni SUI 1:36:5

2023
1.Catherine Debrunner SUI 1:34:16
2.Eden Rainbow-Cooper GBR 1:34:17
3.Manuela Schär SUI 1:34:17

2024
1.Catherine Debrunner SUI 1:35:23
2.Susannah Scaroni USA 1:38:01
3. Manuela Schär SUI 1:41:14

2025
1.Manuela Schär SUI 1:35:08
2.Jade Hall GBR 1:40:18
3.Eden Rainbow-Cooper GBR 1:40:19 

2004
Vico Merklein        GER        1:17:02

2005
Wim Decleir                BEL        1:13:32
2006
Wim Decleir                BEL        1:11:03
2007
Wim Decleir                BEL 1:11:12
2008
Bernd Jeffre                GER        1:05:44
2009
Torsten Purschke        GER        1:05:47
2010
Vico Merklein        GER        1:09:04
2011
Vico Merklein        GER         1:04:10
2012
Vico Merklein        GER         1:05:21
2013
Vico Merklein        GER         1:06:13
2014
Jetze Plat        NED        1:03:37
2015
Vico Merklein        GER         1:02:32
2016
Jetze Plat        NED                1:05:06
2017
Jetze Plat        NED                1:03:45
2018
Vico Merklein        GER          1:04:56
2019
Jetze Plat        NED                1:00:01
2020
Ausgefallen wegen Covid-Maßnahmen
2021
Jonas van de Steene        BEL        1:01:40
2022
Joseph Fritsch        FRA        1:04:32
2023
Joseph Fritsch        FRA         1:00:05
2024
Vico Merklein        GER         1:04:46
2025
Joseph Fritsch        FRA         00:57:53

2004
Monique van der Vorst        NED        1:24:43
2005
Andrea Eskau        GER        1:15:50
2006
Monique van der Vorst        NED         1:18:32
2007
Andrea Eskau        GER         1:18:40
2008
Dorothee Vieth        GER        1:13:53
2009
Monique van der Vorst        NED         1:18:27
2010
Ursula Schwaller        SUI        1:25:13
2011
Ursula Schwaller        SUI         1:17:06
2012
Karen Darke                GBR        1:17:42
2013
Silke Pan        GER        1:15:31
2014
Christiane Reppe        GER        1:10:23
2015
Christiane Reppe        GER         1:10:12
2016
Christiane Reppe        GER         1:08:54
2017
Christiane Reppe        GER         1:10:07
2018
Jennette Jansen        NED        1:17:36
2019
Jennette Jansen        NED         1:10:21
2020
Ausgefallen wegen Covid-Maßnahmen
2021
Yvonne Pijahn        GER        1:22:03
2022
Katrin Möller        GER        1:20:59
2023
Julia Dierkesmann        GER        1:17:51
2024
Francesca Porcellato        ITA        1:17:44
2025
Annika Zeyen-Giles         GER         1:10:38

Click here for the route map, start and finish area, altitude profile.

Here you can find the passing times at each kilometre.

It can be found in almost all major city marathons: the blue line marks exactly 42.195 km or 26 miles and 385 yards – the ideal line to the finish. The blue line was first painted on the road at the 1976 New York City Marathon. In Berlin in 1990, the London-based company Wilson & Scott Road Marking was specially commissioned to spray the dotted blue line onto the Berlin asphalt in a night-time operation (6 hours).

From 1992 onwards, the blue line operation was taken over by a Berlin company, supported by the Berlin police, as the line also runs partly in oncoming traffic. Gunnar Hamel and Gregor Pfennig are responsible for the Blue Line project. The line is applied to the road a few days before the race in dry weather. The project usually starts at 8:30 p.m. and can last until the middle of the night. In case of rain, it must be postponed. It then continues the next evening, provided it is dry again. So far, the weather has never been so bad that the line could not be applied to the road.

The measurement of the Berlin course complies with the requirements of AIMS (Association of International Marathons and Road Races) and the international athletics association World Athletics. The measurement is carried out by the Senate Department for Urban Development and the Environment, Division III – Geoinformation. The surveyor responsible is Gregor Pfennig in cooperation with John Kunkeler. The verification is carried out annually and will be performed on the day of the event by Hugh Jones (London). The former English world-class marathon runner is the secretary general of AIMS.

Interested media representatives who would like to report on the marking of the blue line can obtain further information by calling 0178 – 6829568 (Robert Fekl) or 0173 – 9721150 (Jochen Schmitz).

The BMW BERLIN MARATHON offers one of the most attractive 42.195 km routes in the world. This is true in two respects: on the one hand, the course in the German capital is very flat and therefore ideal for achieving personal bests. On the other hand, it is extremely attractive for tourists. A sightseeing tour could hardly have more points on the agenda. The one-loop-course offers the perfect opportunity for spectators to follow the race. Here are a few tips on how to get the most out of the BMW BERLIN MARATHON.

BY BIKE

Ride your bike to the Victory Column. From the north side of Straße des 17. Juni, look towards the Brandenburg Gate to the start. The runners will come towards you and reach the Victory Column after about 500 meters into the race. Then you head north via Spreeweg and Paulstraße to Alt Moabit (approx. 5.5 kilometers into the race). Then ride back, cross the street, and continue straight ahead past the Victory Column. Via Hofjägerallee, Schillerstraße, and Martin-Luther-Straße, you will reach Grunewaldstraße at kilometer 22.6, shortly after the half-marathon mark. Then drive back a short distance and take Lützowufer to Potsdamer Straße and Potsdamer Platz at kilometer 38.5. From there, drive or run along Ebertstraße to the Brandenburg Gate, about 400 meters before the finish line.

BY U-BAHN AND S-BAHN

Hansaplatz subwaystation (U 9) is only about one kilometer away from the Victory Column (starting line). Simply walk through Altonaer Straße. From Hansaplatz, you can travel to Friedrich-Wilhelm-Platz (kilometer 25), for example. From there, take subway U9 back to Zoologischer Garten and change to the S-Bahn, which will take you to Friedrichstraße (any line). From there, it is only a few steps to the long home stretch on Unter den Linden at kilometer 41. You can also take subway U7. If you are at the start on Straße des 17. Juni and boarded subway U7 at Hansaplatz, you can change to U9 at Berliner Straße station. From there, take the subwayto Hermannplatz (kilometer 16). If you have a quick connection, you can get off at Eisenacher Straße (kilometer 21) on the way back. Then continue to Konstanzer Straße (kilometer 31). After that, go back to the Yorckstraße subway station and from there take the S-Bahn (various lines all heading north) to the Brandenburer Tor stop at kilometer 42.

START AND FINISH ON FOOT

This is no problem at all at the BMW BERLIN MARATHON. And you can see even more than just the start and finish. After the start, position yourself at the Siegessäule (Victory Column) (north side). Then walk along Spreeweg and Paulstraße to the railway underpass and turn right into Lüneburger Straße after the underpass. After a few hundred meters, you will reach the route, which runs along Alt Moabit. There you can walk along the route until you reach Reinhardstraße. Via Luisenstraße, you will reach Unter den Linden in about 10 minutes on foot, where the runners pass shortly before the finish line.

Tourist attractions along the course

0.6 k – Siegessäule (Victory Column) 

The 70-metre tall column is the first Berlin landmark along the course, which will be circled by the runners along both sides. The Siegessäule has a viewing platform. 

6.5 k – Bundeskanzleramt (Federal Chancellery) and Reichstag

Runners will approach the Bundeskanzleramt and the Reichstag. The Reichstag houses the Bundestag (German Parliament) and provides spectacular views of Berlin from atop the copula. 

23 k – Schöneberg City Hall

The former seat of the West Berlin Senate, John F. Kennedy spoke the famous words: „Ich bin ein Berliner“ here in 1963.

 28 k – Wilder Eber (Wild Boar)

The roundabout at „The Wild Boar“ is traditionally a highlight along the course. In this noble Berlin residential area, many spectators and a samba band assure great atmosphere. 

34 k – Kurfürstendamm

The course passes the famous boulevard Kurfürstendamm where masses of spectators gather for a whole kilometer. The finish was located on the Ku’damm from 1981 to 2000. It was then moved to Tauentzienstraße, where it remained until it was changed again in 2003 to the Brandenburg Gate. 

 34.5 k – Gedächtniskirche 

(Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church)

Kaiser Wilhelm Gedächtniskirche is one of the major landmarks in Berlin. Built in 1895 and destroyed in WWII, the church stands in partial ruins as a memorial.

35,5 k – KaDeWe (Kaufhaus des Westens)

The KaDeWe is one of the largest and most famous department stores in Europe.

 38 k – National Gallery and the Philharmonics

On Potsdamer Straße the runners reach the National Gallery (on the left) and the Staatsbibliothek (State Library) on the opposite side. The Philharmonie (Philharmonics) follows on the left.

 38.5 k – Potsdamer Platz

The Potsdamer Platz (Potsdam Square) was once the melting point of pre-war Berlin. After years of construction it has come back to life. Runners should check out the Sony Center located on the left.

41 k – Unter den Linden 

The splendid boulevard is run in its full length. Among other sites, it passes the Zeughaus Museum on the right and the Kronprinzenpalais across from it. Shortly thereafter follows the Humboldt University (on the right) and the Deutsche Staatsoper (German State Opera) on the opposite side.

42 k – Brandenburg Gate

The Brandenburg Gate is Germany’s most famous landmark. The Berlin Wall used to stand on this seam separating the East and West. Since 2003, the course of the BMW BERLIN MARATHON is passing through the Brandenburg Gate just before the finish. Those wishing to witness world-class results or the great joy of masses of runners crossing the finish line should come early to secure a spot in this area.

You can read everything you need to know about the supporting programme here.

All information about the MARATHON EXPO by BRITA as part of the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON can be found here.

The mini-MARATHON presented by GENERALI as part of the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON is organized for students from schools in Berlin and Brandenburg. More informations here.

Have you always wanted to stand next to a world record holder? In the Hall of Fame, you have the opportunity to get up close to the heroes of the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON. More here.

TASTE THE MARATHON-SPIRIT: On the day before the legendary BMW BERLIN-MARATHON, there is the opportunity to run the last 5 kilometers of the original course. More here.

The Bambini Run, as part of the Bambini Running Series presented by ADAC Berlin-Brandenburg, is a great event with a fantastic backdrop and lots of running fun. More here.

From minor issues to emergencies – the medical department of the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON is prepared for anything. All medical support systems are activated before the start to provide competent assistance as quickly as possible in the event of any complaints or emergencies along the course and at the finish line. As in previous years, the medical care for the marathon has been planned according to a comprehensive concept, which forms part of the event’s overall safety plan and in particular ensures networking with all systems and institutions of the State of Berlin.

The marathon course is integrated into the Berlin Fire Department’s emergency rescue system with exact meter precision, enabling the coordination and control center to ensure the fastest possible response time so that medical measures can be applied with pinpoint accuracy. The locations of stationary units are indicated by signs and so-called “beach flags” marked “First Aid / Erste Hilfe Station.” In addition, the Johanniter-Unfall-Hilfe (JUH) will ensure a high density of medical care along the route, deploying mobile units on motorcycles (“First Responders”) as well as vehicles. The emergency personnel are always positioned along the roadside and are easily recognizable. The high standard is also maintained in the finish area, where, according to data from recent years, more than two-thirds of all medical assistance is provided. Here, additional specialists in intensive and emergency medicine are deployed under the direction of experienced emergency physicians and sports medicine doctors from the organizer’s “Medical Team” of the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON.

The management of the event – with regard to medical matters – is carried out between the organizer’s Medical Board (medical operations management), the Berlin Fire Department / emergency rescue services, and the medical services through a medical coordination center (KOMED). All other aspects are coordinated with the involvement of all institutions (police, fire department, emergency services, security service, authorities, traffic control, organizer) via a central coordination center (KOST) located outside the event area. This enables all situations and scenarios – from severe weather conditions to potential major incidents during the event weekend – to be managed quickly and in a structured manner, allowing, for example, rapid changes to operational strategy to be decided and implemented when necessary.

BMW BERLIN-MARATHON Medical Team:

• 140 staff, including approx. 40 emergency physicians and paramedics (internists, anesthetists, cardiologists), orthopedists, trauma surgeons, and sports medicine doctors, as well as 60 nurses and intensive care nurses from Berlin hospitals
• 5 emergency teams of the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON Medical Team, each with 2 doctors on bicycles
• 30 staff members forming the medical triage team in the immediate post-finish area
• Approx. 180 medical massage assistants (along the course and at the finish)

Medical services along the course and in the finish area (Johanniter-Unfall-Hilfe and partners):

• 2 Medical Centers in the finish area with intensive care units and ice baths
• 6 additional First Aid Stations in the finish area with intensive care capabilities
• Approx. 30 First Aid Stations along the course
• 300 paramedics, emergency medical technicians, and support staff
• 10 First Responder teams on motorcycles (emergency units)
• Approx. 30 patient transport vehicles, operated by the Berlin Fire Department
• 10 fire brigade patrols equipped with AED devices dedicated to the event
• 3 emergency physician vehicles and 10 ambulances, additionally deployed by the Berlin Fire Department as required
• 20 ambulances on duty at fire stations in the immediate vicinity of the event area on race day

The first three men and women will be tested. Additionally up to 50 men and 30 women can be tested. The lottery will be carried out by World Athletics or by a responsible person of the National Anti Doping Agency Germany (NADA). The doping tests will be carried out by an institution, which is certified and licensed by the NADA and IAAF. The doping tests include pre-competition tests (blood tests) and in-competition tests (urine).

The SCC EVENTS Medical Team offers a simple health check that everyone can easily complete.

The so-called PAPS Test can be taken here, and it is also offered as part of the registration process for SCC EVENTS events. The test provides an indication of an individual’s general health and whether they are able to engage in physical activity. Depending on the result, recommendations on appropriate behaviour are provided.

When registering for an SCC EVENTS event, the PAPS Test must be completed before the registration process can continue.

Marathon Team Berlin

The hopes of Marathon Team Berlin for the autumn season rest on Johannes Motschmann. He could provide a highlight at the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON. The team, whose parent club SC Charlottenburg, together with SCC EVENTS, organizes events including the GENERALI BERLIN HALF MARATHON and the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON, welcomed Anna Langerwisch as a new addition to the squad in March 2026. However, injury problems meant that the team’s top athletes did not achieve the results they had hoped for during the spring season.

Motschmann Targets Comeback and Personal Best in Berlin

Johannes Motschmann was also affected by bad luck in the spring. After impressing at the end of March at the GENERALI BERLIN HALF MARATHON with a time of 61:47 minutes – just 44 seconds above his personal best of 61:03 – things did not go according to plan two weeks later at the Hannover Marathon. Motschmann, who was considered a favourite for the German championship title, ended the race prematurely due to a minor injury issue. He will now compete at the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON for the third consecutive time and hopes to make a strong comeback. His long-pursued goal of breaking the 2:10:00 mark is certainly within reach. Last year, he was in the right shape to achieve this in Berlin, but the unusually high temperatures affected all runners. With a time of 2:10:40, Motschmann missed his personal best by just one second. Nevertheless, it was a performance that gave reason for optimism.

Sebastian Hendel Fighting His Way Back Towards the Marathon Elite

Sebastian Hendel – the second Marathon Team Berlin runner who belongs to the extended German marathon elite – is experiencing an extremely difficult phase of his career due to injury problems. Two years ago, he surprised at the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON with an impressive personal best of 2:07:33 hours. However, after health setbacks during the following winter and spring, the heat at the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON 2025 then ended his hopes of a strong result. Not naturally suited to hot conditions, he struggled and eventually had to withdraw from the race. The 30-year-old was also unlucky in his second attempt in Valencia at the beginning of December: hip problems forced him to abandon the race once again. This injury also kept him sidelined this year. After two 10 km races, he was initially unable to compete in any further events. As a result, he had to withdraw from both the GENERALI BERLIN HALF MARATHON and the Hamburg Marathon, as well as later from the adidas Runners City Night 10 km race in Berlin.

Kristina Hendel Looking to Return After Years of Injury Problems

Kristina Hendel has also been plagued by injury problems for many years. In 2022, she set her marathon personal best of 2:27:29 in Hamburg. However, she has not been able to match this performance since then. This year, Kristina Hendel returned to competition in late spring. She ran two half marathons in the Czech Republic: finishing seventh in České Budějovice (1:16:27) and sixth in Olomouc (1:14:58), but she is still waiting for her breakthrough performance.

Deborah and Rabea Schöneborn on the Road Back

Deborah and Rabea Schöneborn have not been able to return to their previous performance level for some time. The 32-year-old twins have repeatedly struggled with injury-related setbacks. Deborah ran 1:13:03 at this spring’s GENERALI BERLIN HALF MARATHON, while Rabea finished in 1:15:06. While Rabea Schöneborn has not competed in a marathon this year, Deborah finished sixth at the Düsseldorf Marathon with a time of 2:36:45.

Newcomer Anna Langerwisch Adds Fresh Momentum to the Team

New signing Anna Langerwisch made headlines at the Prague Marathon in early May with a time of 2:32:13 and crowned her performance by winning the European Police Championships title both individually and as part of the team competition under warm conditions. The 25-year-old is targeting a time of around 2:26 at her BMW BERLIN-MARATHON debut and brings fresh momentum to the German women’s long-distance running scene. In training, she is supported by team colleague Katja Fischer, who brings extensive experience on Berlin’s courses and is aiming for a new personal best at the end of September.

Here you can find the Advisory Board of SCC EVENTS GmbH

Host Organization
Sport-Club Charlottenburg e.V.

Organizer
SCC EVENTS GmbH
Olympiapark Berlin
Hanns-Braun-Straße/Adlerplatz

14053 Berlin

Tel. 030 – 301 288 10
Fax 030 – 301 288 20
www.scc-events.com

Organization Team

BMW BERLIN-MARATHON
CEOs
Christian Jost, Jürgen Lock

Director Event Management
Mark Milde

Director Operations
Carsten Humrich

Director Participant Management, Marketing|Digital, Process Management
Antje Jüntgen

Director Sponsorship
Jennifer Barthel

Team Leads Media Relations & Editorial
Robert Fekl, Jochen Schmitz

Team Lead Operations
Michael Gerlach

Team Lead Participant Management
Judy Kumutat

Team Lead Marketing|Digital
Nadia Dagher

Team Lead Finance
Aike Fokkena

Team Lead Event Management
Achim Rau

Team Lead Sponsoring
Timo Göhler

Team Lead Process Management
Grischa Lewandowski

Team Lead Public Affairs
Yvonne Meißner

Medical Board/Medical Directors
PD Dr. med Matthias Krüll, Dr. med. Margrit Lock, Sandra Paffenbach

HR
Philip Lehmann

Race Director
Mark Milde

Participant Management
Sylvia Ackermann, Georgia Andrews, Celina Appenheimer,
Lara Bär, Anika Gerlach, Marc Goldmann, Fynn Hänsel, Monique Hoppe, Sybille Hoppe, Antje Jüntgen, Philipp Kadow, Ines Kuke, Judy Kumutat, Jasper Lock, Anja Lüthke, Laura Tapia, Carmen Springfeld, Stella Strohbach, Britt Munzlinger

Process Management
Linda Baumgart, Anika Günther, Stephanie Kamen, Grischa Lewandowski, Markus März

Elite Athlete Services
Philipp Kadow, Nadine Mietke, Carsten Helterhof

EXPO
Katharina Holle, Dominik Scholten

Broom Wagon
Christian Löw

Results Service
mika:timing

Event Management
Katharina Holle, Ellen Lotz, Nadine Mietke, Mark Milde, Ingo Monse, Robert Müller, Achim Rau, Sophie Richter, Maren Riedel, Dominik Scholten

Meeting Point
Bastian Klemke

Transportation Service
Gabi Mahn, Mario Mahn

Blue Line
Gunnar Hamel, Gregor Pfennig

Handbike/ Wheelchair Competitions
Ines Kuke, Chantal Mahn, Nadine Mietke, Carmen Springfeld

Volunteer Management
Ralf Burzlaff, Noah Löffler, Vivian Schneider

Jubilee Club
Ines Kuke, Carmen Springfeld

Sustainability
Michael Fuchs

Inlineskating
Gerte Buchheit, Ingo Monse

Cloakroom
Peter Fielhauer, Yves Imbert, Alexander Schröter, Christina Imbert, Joachim Zschaler

Poncho Distribution
Alexander Horn

Marketing|Digital
Nadia Dagher, Lara Fleischmann, Janis vom Hoff, Antje Jüntgen, Pauline Lischke, Kirsti Maiwald, Jonas Martin, Sabrina Krause, Tanischa Uebel, Anna Schiffels, Tim Quindt

International Groups Partner
Mareike Dehmel, Anna Engel, Melanie Moll, Sarah Panski

Medal Distribution
Dirk Richter, Sven Uterhardt

Media Relations & Editorial/Media Center
Gerte Buchheit, Frauke Constantin, Vincent Dornbusch, Robert Fekl, Elisabeth Hanke, Tom Kettelhut, Jochen Schmitz, Thomas Steffens, Jakob Wartchow, Jörg Wenig, Mariella Wollenick

Sponsoring
Nicole Altenhof, Philipp Altmeppen, Jennifer Barthel, Timo Göhler, Mirella Jaacks, Linda Kollmann, Max Lichtenberg, Tim Nicodemus, Ines Rentsch, Dominik Rosenau, Marit van Eijk, Lara Vogel

Massage
Matthias Vogel

Finance
Aike Fokkena, Antonella Giglio, Heike Krone, Marcel Reppien, Simone Schmidt

Sports Medical Services
Angela Hänsel, Emilia Tommasino, Julia Seiffert, SCC Events Medical Team

Music/Course
Björn Kasan

Personal Refreshments
Dominic Beblie

Police Commander in Charge
LtdPD Hartwich

Protocol/VIP
Marion Strolz

Announcers
Jonas Frank, Dr. Karsten Holland, Sven Stöcklein

Start
Janine Heß, Marcel Heß, Sonja Glauert, Steffen Kirner, Andreas Pohlmann

Course
Gunnar Hamel, Gregor Pfennig

Pace Display Service
Helmut Winter, Sean Hartnett, Collin Winter and Paul Wallstab

Course Measurement
John Kunkeler, Gregor Pfennig

Course Services
Jette Kasper, Max Roy

Operations
Oliver Bach, Paul Bär, Christian Fahr, Michael Gerlach, Daniel Hoppe, Carsten Humrich, StefanieMünzberg, Lars Nitz, Victor Perez, Janin Reinhardt, Silvia Schmidt

Pacemakers
Martin Schöll, Sascha Ratzinger (pacerteam.de)

Mascot
Fridolin Flink

Award Ceremonies
Yvonne Meißner

Party
Eliane Mietke

Medical Services
Johanniter Unfallhilfe e.V.

Refreshment Stations on the Course

Start
SCC Berlin e. V.

5 k Refreshment Point
„Zur Ruderer-Schänke“ | Ruder-Club Tegel
Markus Hardt, Tobias Lohr

9 k  Refreshment Point
FV Freizeitsport e.V.
Lutz Berthold, Birgit Berthold

12 k Refreshment Point
THW Jugend | Sascha Barnewske

15 k  Refreshment Point
Berliner Schwimmverband (Jugend)
Manuela Krause, Sascha Weiß

17.5 k Refreshment Point
Berliner Freizeitsport und Kultur e.V.

20 k  Refreshment Point
Anna Engel, Sarah Panski

22.5 k Refreshment Point
Berliner Jugend-Feuerwehr
Dennis Langrock

25 k  Refreshment Point
Sportstudio Nippon
Carla Sparmann, Esther Buchwald, Carola Pempe

27.5 k Refreshment Point
LG Süd Berlin
Maximilian Totel, Sarah Wagner

30 k  Refreshment Point
Anne Meyer, Andreas Knoll

32.5 k  Refreshment Point
TÜV Rheinland Akademie Berlin
Melanie Balzer

34.5 k Refreshment Point
„Knackpunkt“ | Nordberliner Lauffreunde
Jörg Busche, Christian Meier

36 k  Refreshment Point
LAC Berlin
Stefan Bauer, Patrick Reich

38 k Refreshment Point
LC Cottbus
Kerstin Füßler, Roland Füßler

40 k  Refreshment Point
„Zur letzten Tränke“ | SCC-Langstreckler
Karsten Kupsch

Finish
ABC Zentrum Berlin
Kai-Thomas Arndt, Denise Thunich

Inline Skating  Refreshment Points

6/13/20/27/34 km:

Motor Eberswalde | Detlef Mierig

((*))Host Organization

Sport-Club Charlottenburg e.V.

Organizer

SCC EVENTS GmbH

Olympiapark Berlin

Hanns-Braun-Straße/Adlerplatz

14053 Berlin

Tel. 030 – 301 288 10

Fax 030 – 301 288 20

www.scc-events.com

Organization Team

BMW BERLIN-MARATHON

CEOs

Christian Jost, Jürgen Lock

Director Event Management

Mark Milde

Director Operations

Carsten Humrich

Director Participant Management,

Marketing|Digital, Process Management

Antje Jüntgen

Director Sponsorship

Jennifer Barthel

Team Leads Media Relations & Editorial

Robert Fekl, Jochen Schmitz

Team Lead Operations

Michael Gerlach

Team Lead Participant Management

Judy Kumutat

Team Lead Marketing|Digital

Nadia Dagher

Team Lead Finance

Aike Fokkena

Team Lead Event Management

Achim Rau

Team Lead Sponsoring

Timo Göhler

Team Lead Process Management

Grischa Lewandowski

Team Lead Public Affairs

Yvonne Meißner

Medical Board/Medical Directors

PD Dr. med Matthias Krüll,

Dr. med. Margrit Lock, Sandra Paffenbach

HR

Philip Lehmann

Race Director

Mark Milde

Participant Management

Sylvia Ackermann, Georgia Andrews, Celina Appenheimer,

Lara Bär, Anika Gerlach, Marc Goldmann,

Fynn Hänsel, Monique Hoppe, Sybille Hoppe, Antje

Jüntgen, Philipp Kadow, Ines Kuke, Judy Kumutat,

Jasper Lock, Anja Lüthke, Laura Tapia, Carmen

Springfeld, Stella Strohbach, Britt Munzlinger

Process Management

Linda Baumgart, Anika Günther, Stephanie Kamen,

Grischa Lewandowski, Markus März

Elite Athlete Services

Philipp Kadow, Nadine Mietke, Carsten Helterhof

EXPO

Katharina Holle, Dominik Scholten

Broom Wagon

Christian Löw

Results Service

mika:timing

Event Management

Katharina Holle, Ellen Lotz, Nadine Mietke, Mark

Milde, Ingo Monse, Robert Müller, Achim Rau,

Sophie Richter, Maren Riedel, Dominik Scholten

Meeting Point

Bastian Klemke

Transportation Service

Gabi Mahn, Mario Mahn

Blue Line

Gunnar Hamel, Gregor Pfennig

Handbike/ Wheelchair Competitions

Ines Kuke, Chantal Mahn, Nadine Mietke,

Carmen Springfeld

Volunteer Management

Ralf Burzlaff, Noah Löffler, Vivian Schneider

Jubilee Club

Ines Kuke, Carmen Springfeld

Sustainability

Michael Fuchs

Inlineskating

Gerte Buchheit, Ingo Monse

Cloakroom

Peter Fielhauer, Yves Imbert, Alexander Schröter,

Christina Imbert, Joachim Zschaler

Poncho Distribution

Alexander Horn

Marketing|Digital

Nadia Dagher, Lara Fleischmann, Janis vom Hoff,

Antje Jüntgen, Pauline Lischke, Kirsti Maiwald,

Jonas Martin, Sabrina Krause, Tanischa Uebel, Anna

Schiffels, Tim Quindt

International Groups Partner

Mareike Dehmel, Anna Engel, Melanie Moll, Sarah

Panski

Medal Distribution

Dirk Richter, Sven Uterhardt

Media Relations & Editorial/Media Center

Gerte Buchheit, Frauke Constantin, Vincent

Dornbusch, Robert Fekl, Elisabeth Hanke,

Tom Kettelhut, Jochen Schmitz, Thomas

Steffens, Jakob Wartchow, Jörg Wenig,

Mariella Wollenick

Sponsoring

Nicole Altenhof, Philipp Altmeppen,

Jennifer Barthel, Timo Göhler, Mirella Jaacks,

Linda Kollmann, Max Lichtenberg, Tim

Nicodemus, Ines Rentsch, Dominik Rosenau,

Marit van Eijk, Lara Vogel

Massage

Matthias Vogel

Finance

Aike Fokkena, Antonella Giglio, Heike Krone,

Marcel Reppien, Simone Schmidt

Sports Medical Services

Angela Hänsel, Emilia Tommasino, Julia Seiffert,

SCC Events Medical Team

Music/Course

Björn Kasan

Personal Refreshments

Dominic Beblie

Police Commander in Charge

LtdPD Hartwich

Protocol/VIP

Marion Strolz

Announcers

Jonas Frank, Dr. Karsten Holland, Sven Stöcklein

Start

Janine Heß, Marcel Heß, Sonja Glauert,

Steffen Kirner, Andreas Pohlmann

Course

Gunnar Hamel, Gregor Pfennig

Race Display Service

Helmut Winter, Sean Heartnett

Course Measurement

John Kunkeler, Gregor Pfennig

Course Services

Jette Kasper, Max Roy

Operations

Oliver Bach, Paul Bär, Christian Fahr, Michael

Gerlach, Daniel Hoppe, Carsten Humrich, Stefanie

Münzberg, Lars Nitz, Victor Perez,

Janin Reinhardt, Silvia Schmidt

Pacemakers

Martin Schöll, Sascha Ratzinger (pacerteam.de)

Mascot

Fridolin Flink

Award Ceremonies

Yvonne Meißner

Party

Eliane Mietke

Medical Services

Johanniter Unfallhilfe e.V.

Refreshment Stations on the Course

Start

SCC Berlin e. V.

5 k Refreshment Point

„Zur Ruderer-Schänke“ | Ruder-Club Tegel

Markus Hardt, Tobias Lohr

9 k  Refreshment Point

FV Freizeitsport e.V.

Lutz Berthold, Birgit Berthold

12 k Refreshment Point

THW Jugend | Sascha Barnewske

15 k  Refreshment Point

Berliner Schwimmverband (Jugend)

Manuela Krause, Sascha Weiß

17.5 k Refreshment Point

Berliner Freizeitsport und Kultur e.V.

20 k  Refreshment Point

Anna Engel, Sarah Panski

22.5 k Refreshment Point

Berliner Jugend-Feuerwehr

Dennis Langrock

25 k  Refreshment Point

Sportstudio Nippon

Carla Sparmann, Esther Buchwald, Carola

Pempe

27.5 k Refreshment Point

LG Süd Berlin

Maximilian Totel, Sarah Wagner

30 k  Refreshment Point

Anne Meyer, Andreas Knoll

32.5 k  Refreshment Point

TÜV Rheinland Akademie Berlin

Melanie Balzer

34.5 k Refreshment Point

„Knackpunkt“ | Nordberliner Lauffreunde

Jörg Busche, Christian Meier

36 k  Refreshment Point

LAC Berlin

Stefan Bauer, Patrick Reich

38 k Refreshment Point

LC Cottbus

Kerstin Füßler, Roland Füßler

40 k  Refreshment Point

„Zur letzten Tränke“ | SCC-Langstreckler

Karsten Kupsch

Finish

ABC Zentrum Berlin

Kai-Thomas Arndt, Denise Thunich

Inline Skating  Refreshment Points

6/13/20/27/34 km:

Motor Eberswalde | Detlef Mierig

((*))Host Organization

Sport-Club Charlottenburg e.V.

Organizer

SCC EVENTS GmbH

Olympiapark Berlin

Hanns-Braun-Straße/Adlerplatz

14053 Berlin

Tel. 030 – 301 288 10

Fax 030 – 301 288 20

www.scc-events.com

Organization Team

BMW BERLIN-MARATHON

CEOs

Christian Jost, Jürgen Lock

Director Event Management

Mark Milde

Director Operations

Carsten Humrich

Director Participant Management,

Marketing|Digital, Process Management

Antje Jüntgen

Director Sponsorship

Jennifer Barthel

Team Leads Media Relations & Editorial

Robert Fekl, Jochen Schmitz

Team Lead Operations

Michael Gerlach

Team Lead Participant Management

Judy Kumutat

Team Lead Marketing|Digital

Nadia Dagher

Team Lead Finance

Aike Fokkena

Team Lead Event Management

Achim Rau

Team Lead Sponsoring

Timo Göhler

Team Lead Process Management

Grischa Lewandowski

Team Lead Public Affairs

Yvonne Meißner

Medical Board/Medical Directors

PD Dr. med Matthias Krüll,

Dr. med. Margrit Lock, Sandra Paffenbach

HR

Philip Lehmann

Race Director

Mark Milde

Participant Management

Sylvia Ackermann, Georgia Andrews, Celina Appenheimer,

Lara Bär, Anika Gerlach, Marc Goldmann,

Fynn Hänsel, Monique Hoppe, Sybille Hoppe, Antje

Jüntgen, Philipp Kadow, Ines Kuke, Judy Kumutat,

Jasper Lock, Anja Lüthke, Laura Tapia, Carmen

Springfeld, Stella Strohbach, Britt Munzlinger

Process Management

Linda Baumgart, Anika Günther, Stephanie Kamen,

Grischa Lewandowski, Markus März

Elite Athlete Services

Philipp Kadow, Nadine Mietke, Carsten Helterhof

EXPO

Katharina Holle, Dominik Scholten

Broom Wagon

Christian Löw

Results Service

mika:timing

Event Management

Katharina Holle, Ellen Lotz, Nadine Mietke, Mark

Milde, Ingo Monse, Robert Müller, Achim Rau,

Sophie Richter, Maren Riedel, Dominik Scholten

Meeting Point

Bastian Klemke

Transportation Service

Gabi Mahn, Mario Mahn

Blue Line

Gunnar Hamel, Gregor Pfennig

Handbike/ Wheelchair Competitions

Ines Kuke, Chantal Mahn, Nadine Mietke,

Carmen Springfeld

Volunteer Management

Ralf Burzlaff, Noah Löffler, Vivian Schneider

Jubilee Club

Ines Kuke, Carmen Springfeld

Sustainability

Michael Fuchs

Inlineskating

Gerte Buchheit, Ingo Monse

Cloakroom

Peter Fielhauer, Yves Imbert, Alexander Schröter,

Christina Imbert, Joachim Zschaler

Poncho Distribution

Alexander Horn

Marketing|Digital

Nadia Dagher, Lara Fleischmann, Janis vom Hoff,

Antje Jüntgen, Pauline Lischke, Kirsti Maiwald,

Jonas Martin, Sabrina Krause, Tanischa Uebel, Anna

Schiffels, Tim Quindt

International Groups Partner

Mareike Dehmel, Anna Engel, Melanie Moll, Sarah

Panski

Medal Distribution

Dirk Richter, Sven Uterhardt

Media Relations & Editorial/Media Center

Gerte Buchheit, Frauke Constantin, Vincent

Dornbusch, Robert Fekl, Elisabeth Hanke,

Tom Kettelhut, Jochen Schmitz, Thomas

Steffens, Jakob Wartchow, Jörg Wenig,

Mariella Wollenick

Sponsoring

Nicole Altenhof, Philipp Altmeppen,

Jennifer Barthel, Timo Göhler, Mirella Jaacks,

Linda Kollmann, Max Lichtenberg, Tim

Nicodemus, Ines Rentsch, Dominik Rosenau,

Marit van Eijk, Lara Vogel

Massage

Matthias Vogel

Finance

Aike Fokkena, Antonella Giglio, Heike Krone,

Marcel Reppien, Simone Schmidt

Sports Medical Services

Angela Hänsel, Emilia Tommasino, Julia Seiffert,

SCC Events Medical Team

Music/Course

Björn Kasan

Personal Refreshments

Dominic Beblie

Police Commander in Charge

LtdPD Hartwich

Protocol/VIP

Marion Strolz

Announcers

Jonas Frank, Dr. Karsten Holland, Sven Stöcklein

Start

Janine Heß, Marcel Heß, Sonja Glauert,

Steffen Kirner, Andreas Pohlmann

Course

Gunnar Hamel, Gregor Pfennig

Race Display Service

Helmut Winter, Sean Heartnett

Course Measurement

John Kunkeler, Gregor Pfennig

Course Services

Jette Kasper, Max Roy

Operations

Oliver Bach, Paul Bär, Christian Fahr, Michael

Gerlach, Daniel Hoppe, Carsten Humrich, Stefanie

Münzberg, Lars Nitz, Victor Perez,

Janin Reinhardt, Silvia Schmidt

Pacemakers

Martin Schöll, Sascha Ratzinger (pacerteam.de)

Mascot

Fridolin Flink

Award Ceremonies

Yvonne Meißner

Party

Eliane Mietke

Medical Services

Johanniter Unfallhilfe e.V.

Refreshment Stations on the Course

Start

SCC Berlin e. V.

5 k Refreshment Point

„Zur Ruderer-Schänke“ | Ruder-Club Tegel

Markus Hardt, Tobias Lohr

9 k  Refreshment Point

FV Freizeitsport e.V.

Lutz Berthold, Birgit Berthold

12 k Refreshment Point

THW Jugend | Sascha Barnewske

15 k  Refreshment Point

Berliner Schwimmverband (Jugend)

Manuela Krause, Sascha Weiß

17.5 k Refreshment Point

Berliner Freizeitsport und Kultur e.V.

20 k  Refreshment Point

Anna Engel, Sarah Panski

22.5 k Refreshment Point

Berliner Jugend-Feuerwehr

Dennis Langrock

25 k  Refreshment Point

Sportstudio Nippon

Carla Sparmann, Esther Buchwald, Carola

Pempe

27.5 k Refreshment Point

LG Süd Berlin

Maximilian Totel, Sarah Wagner

30 k  Refreshment Point

Anne Meyer, Andreas Knoll

32.5 k  Refreshment Point

TÜV Rheinland Akademie Berlin

Melanie Balzer

34.5 k Refreshment Point

„Knackpunkt“ | Nordberliner Lauffreunde

Jörg Busche, Christian Meier

36 k  Refreshment Point

LAC Berlin

Stefan Bauer, Patrick Reich

38 k Refreshment Point

LC Cottbus

Kerstin Füßler, Roland Füßler

40 k  Refreshment Point
„Zur letzten Tränke“ | SCC-Langstreckler
Karsten Kupsch

Finish
ABC Zentrum Berlin
Kai-Thomas Arndt, Denise Thunich

Inline Skating  Refreshment Points

6/13/20/27/34 km:
Motor Eberswalde | Detlef Mierig

The BMW BERLIN-MARATHON is more than just a single race: it is where the decision is made in the GERMAN INLINE CUP and the WORLD INLINE CUP. For the world’s best, Berlin is the decisive finale – and for all participants, it is the chance to be part of this great story.

You can find the current rankings here:

GERMAN INLINE CUP

WORLD INLINE CUP

At the French double victory in 2025, Ewen Fernandez (Powerslide) won in 59:27, while Aubaine Plouhinec (SPSPSK Rollerblade) claimed the women's title in 1:16:06.

In 2024, Belgium’s Bart Swings won the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON Inlineskating in a time of 1:00:02 hours, while the fastest woman was Noraly Berber Vonk, finishing in 1:13:53 hours.

Winners from previous years (PDF).

All-new BMW i3 to spearhead BMW BERLIN-MARATHON.

BMW is title partner of one of the world’s fastest marathons again in 2026 and will be supporting this unique sporting event in Germany with the same passion that inspires athletes from around the world to achieve sporting excellence. This year’s BMW BERLIN-MARATHON will be the setting for one of the new all-electric BMW i3’s first public appearances.

The BMW Group is much more than an automobile manufacturer. It is an integral part of society, both inside and outside of our factory gates and offices. Supporting this diversity and inclusion in sport is of great importance to the BMW Group. Sport creates unique moments for those taking part and for fans, fosters a sense of community, and brings people from different backgrounds and cultures together.

This is precisely what the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON represents – with participants from all around the world, handbike and wheelchair competitions, runners with a large range of personal bests, and enthusiastic sports fans lining the route.

Everyone will also be able to witness one of the first public appearances of the new all-electric BMW i3, which will be guiding the men’s field as the lead vehicle. With the new BMW i3 as the second model of the Neue Klasse range, BMW is entering a thrilling new era of driving pleasure. Like the BMW iX3 – last year’s lead vehicle for the men’s elite race and in action at the front of the women’s field in 2026 – the new BMW i3 also represents a technological quantum leap into a new era.

The highly efficient sixth-generation BMW eDrive technology, together with the new BMW Panoramic iDrive and Heart of Joy, delivers driving pleasure on a level never experienced before. With its all-electric range of up to 906 kilometres (WLTP), the new BMW i3 could complete all World Marathon Majors for two and a half years on a single charge. The additional range after 10 minutes of DC charging at the maximum charge rate would be enough for a further ten marathons (up to 423 km in accordance with WLTP).

For press releases and press photos, see the BMW Group PressClub.

Contact

Tim Holzmüller

BMW Group Press Spokesperson Sport Engagement, Real Estate

Phone: +49 151 601 33309

E-mail: tim.holzmueller@bmwgroup.com

“Celebrating 42.2km of Music” – adidas Brings the Sound of Berlin to the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON

For more than three decades, adidas and the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON have shared a passion for running. As a long-standing partner and official outfitter of one of the world’s most iconic marathon events, the brand with the three stripes supports tens of thousands of runners each year on their journey from the start line to the finish.

In 2026, adidas once again equips the many volunteers lining the course and proudly presents the official BMW BERLIN-MARATHON 2026 Collection. The range includes performance apparel, running footwear and accessories designed for training, race day and the unforgettable finish-line moment. The collection will be available at the Marathon Expo, the adidas Brand Store Berlin and online at adidas Berlin Marathon.

Under the motto “Celebrating 42.2km of Music,” this year’s collection draws inspiration from one of the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON’s most defining characteristics: the city’s unmistakable soundscape. More than 80 live bands and DJs transform the course into a unique stage each year, making music a constant companion for participants throughout the race. From high-energy beats to rhythmic drum performances, the sounds of Berlin motivate runners every step of the way. Reflecting this atmosphere, the collection’s designs combine dynamic graphics with a vibrant colour palette that captures the emotional journey of a marathon - from the anticipation at the start line to the euphoria of crossing the finish.

At this year’s BMW BERLIN-MARATHON, the running world’s attention will be focused on Tigst Assefa. The adidas athlete recently made global headlines by setting a world record at the London Marathon while racing in the new adidas Adizero Adios Pro Evo 3. As one of the most successful marathon runners of her generation, Assefa will arrive in Berlin as one of the leading favourites and will once again look to push the boundaries of what is possible.

With the official BMW BERLIN-MARATHON 2026 Collection and its continued commitment to both elite and recreational running, adidas remains dedicated to inspiring and supporting runners of all levels while celebrating the passion and spirit of marathon running.

The Abbott World Marathon Majors is a series of the eight largest and most renowned marathons in the world. Those who run them embody the pinnacle of prioritizing physical and mental health, and their dedication is a testament to pursuing their healthiest and fullest lives.

Proudly sponsored by Abbott since 2015, these races unite hundreds of thousands of runners from around the globe with a remarkable goal — crossing the finish line after 42.195 kilometers. These inspiring individuals exemplify that amazing achievements are possible when we are at our healthiest and display the very essence of reaching one’s personal best.

At Abbott, our 122,000 employees in more than 160 countries are devoted to advancing life-changing technology that helps people achieve their full potential.

From technologies that help you turn your body’s data into insights, to handheld blood analyzers in race medical tents that ensure runners are receiving the care they need, Abbott’s innovations help people no matter where they’re at.

During the race, keep an eye out at the 41.5km mark where approximately 200 employees from our Abbott Germany office and Team Abbott family and friends will be cheering from the Abbott Cheer Zone. Our employees will also be at the finish line to award Six-Star Medals to runners completing their sixth Abbott World Marathon Major in Berlin.

Zalando RunZone 2.0

September 25 to 27

Kurfürstendamm 229

10719 Berlin

Your shortcut to belonging starts here. At the Zalando RunZone 2.0, we’re inviting you to Run Like a Local. Test the latest shoes from different brands on our treadmills, customize your race-day look, and create content in our Berlin Späti studio. From expert panel talks to connecting with local running crews, find everything you need to fuel your run during marathon week.

Link: https://www.zalando-events.com/runzone

Generali Deutschland AG – Partner of the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON 2026

Generali Deutschland will remain firmly rooted in running in 2026 and will once again support the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON as a co-sponsor. As title sponsor of the GENERALI 5K as part of the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON and partner of the mini-MARATHON presented by GENERALI, the insurance group is creating additional running opportunities for different age groups, experience levels and performance levels.

This commitment is embedded in Generali Deutschland’s comprehensive “Sport Ecosystem”. The initiative brings together sport, health, prevention and social responsibility – with the aim of inspiring people to lead active, health-conscious lives, strengthening community and opening up new perspectives. In doing so, Generali deliberately supports both grassroots and elite sport.

The GENERALI 5K gives running enthusiasts the opportunity to experience the final five kilometres of the original marathon course, including the finish through the Brandenburg Gate. At the mini-MARATHON presented by GENERALI, children and young people can gain their first running experience over a distance of 4.2195 kilometres.

Sport moves people – and creates opportunities

Generali consistently combines its commitment to sport with social responsibility – and will once again send a strong charity signal in 2026. Participants could purchase charity entries or charity tickets, with proceeds going to the international Generali Foundation The Human Safety Net. The donations support programmes for disadvantaged children and families that open up opportunities, create future prospects and strengthen access to physical activity and social participation.

Generali in Germany

Generali in Germany is one of the leading primary insurance groups in the German market, serving more than 9 million customers. As part of the international Generali Group, Generali in Germany operates under the Generali, CosmosDirekt and Dialog brands in life, health and property/casualty insurance.

Press contact:

Tina Mirzai-Spitzer, Head of Communications, Tel: +49 (0) 1511 4725191

Jörg Linder, Head of Media Relations, Tel.: +49 (0) 241 456-5664

E-Mail: presse.de@generali.com

Experience your “Refill Moment” with BRITA – sustainable hydration at the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON

Berlin is running – and BRITA is running with you. As an official partner of the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON, BRITA delivers sustainable refreshment along the course and in the finish area. With filtered tap water, BRITA offers a smart, resource-efficient alternative to single-use plastic – for everyone who takes part and wants to make conscious choices.

By using BRITA filtration systems, the consumption of single-use plastic is significantly reduced – turning the marathon not only into a sporting highlight, but also into a visible example of more sustainable event concepts. Together with participants, BRITA is sending a strong signal for mindful consumption and modern hydration.

To further reduce the number of plastic cups distributed to athletes, BRITA is bringing its full expertise to the race in late September: optimized refill stations will be installed along the course, allowing runners to conveniently refill their packs, bottles and belts. The total volume provided will be measured and assessed jointly by BRITA and the event organizer SCC EVENTS.

Sustainable hydration goes beyond the course: at the MARATHON EXPO by BRITA, participants and fans will be offered free filtered water for the first time – providing another opportunity to significantly reduce the need for plastic bottles.

Find out more here: Alle Pressemitteilungen und News | BRITA Newsroom

CLIF – Official Energy Bar Partner

Here for the Good Times

CLIF Bar is a brand born from a love of the great outdoors, crafted for active people who find joy in movement. First created in 1992, its blend of oats and protein is there to get you out and keep you going.

Rooted in the calling of the great outdoors, CLIF Bar believes that movement is key to a happy and fulfilled life. The brand celebrates the joy of performing at your best while in your element and is crafted to provide the energy you need to not just endure the miles, but enjoy them.

CLIF Bar Energy Bars are delicious energy bars crafted with whole oats and plant-based protein to help keep you moving.* Made with up to 15 grams of oats and 9–11g of plant-based protein per bar, CLIF Bar never melts, crumbles, or freezes and is built for every condition the road throws at you.

As Official Energy Bar of the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON, CLIF is tapping into Berlin's legendary reputation for fast times and flipping it to celebrate the good times had by all.

NEW for BMW BERLIN-MARATHON 2026: CLIF Pacers Helping Every Participant Become a Berlin Legend

For the 2026 BMW BERLIN-MARATHON, CLIF is introducing dedicated pacers to support participants targeting 5 to 6 hour finishing times. CLIF Pacers will guide participants to their personal goals, keeping up the good times from start to finish and helping every participant cross the line with a time they're proud of.

CLIF at the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON 2026:

• Official Energy Bar Partner
• CLIF Pacers supporting 5–6 hour finishing times
• CLIF Cheering Zone at kilometre 38 featuring a live LED wall displaying personalised messages that participants can write to their future selves at the Marathon EXPO
• CLIF booth at the Marathon EXPO with sampling and activations

About CLIF

CLIF is a leading global energy bar brand and part of Mondelēz International. Founded in 1992, CLIF is built on a belief in the power of movement and a love and respect for the great outdoors. Available across Europe in leading retailers, sports nutrition stores and on Amazon.

*Phosphorus contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism.

www.clifbar.eu @clifeurope

Break your banking barriers with Revolut

Revolut is Europe’s most valuable fintech ($115B) and the fastest growing bank on the continent. With over 75 million customers worldwide and operations across 40 countries and growing, Revolut is on track to build the largest global bank in the world.

In the E.U. Revolut is directly supervised by the European Central Bank, Revolut offers the safety, scale, and reliability of a regulated financial institution – with the speed and innovation of a tech company. The company holds a full European banking licence and operates local branches in key markets including Germany, where over 3 million customers now use Revolut for everyday banking.

From everyday payments, savings and credit to trading, lifestyle, travel products, and currency exchange, Revolut brings a full suite of financial services into one seamless mobile app. Revolut is the fastest growing bank in Europe because users are choosing Revolut not just for its convenience, but for its security, transparent pricing, and cutting-edge features.

https://www.revolut.com/

Press Contact: media@revolut.com

SHOKZ – EXPERIENCING BERLIN WITH OPEN EARS

Technology for more freedom, safety, and inclusion in sports

When tens of thousands of runners pass through the Brandenburg Gate on Marathon Sunday, the emotion, endurance, and determination are not only felt – they can also be heard.

Open-ear headphones are once again officially race approved for the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON in 2026. This allows runners to enjoy their motivating soundtrack while staying connected to Berlin’s unique atmosphere.

As the official headphone partner, Shokz accompanies runners every step of the way – open to the sound, the city, and the moment. Our open-ear technology allows runners to enjoy music or motivating words while remaining aware of their surroundings – from the cheers of the crowd and instructions along the course to the rhythm of their own breathing. An individual run becomes a shared, immersive, and more mindful experience. For years, Shokz has supported the global sporting community. Whether in marathons, triathlons, or trail running, our technology accompanies elite and everyday athletes in more than 60 countries. But our purpose goes beyond athletic performance. We believe in a world where listening matters – in competition, in everyday life, and in our connections with one another.

Moving the world and enriching lives through technological innovation – that is our guiding principle. Being able to champion greater freedom, safety, and inclusion in sport at the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON once again this year fills us with pride. For us, this marathon is not only an athletic challenge but also a celebration of a running experience that is open to all the senses.

Press contact

Yves Dai, DACH Marketing Lead
Tel: +86 18702895668
Email: yves.dai@shokz.com
https://de.shokz.com/

Experience your “legendary moment” with ERDINGER Alkoholfrei – your post-sport ritual

ERDINGER Alkoholfrei is traditionally part of the BMW Berlin Marathon this year again and awaits participants behind the finish line between the Brandenburger Tor and the Siegessäule for their legendary moment. Together, we will toast your achievement and celebrate your success – because there are thousands of rituals before sport, but only one after: ERDINGER Alkoholfrei. Isotonic, vitamin-rich, low in calories.

One team, one passion: the ERDINGER Active TEAM

Whether young or old, professional or beginner – the ERDINGER Active TEAM is a community that connects people and provides lots of fun, motivation, and inspiration. They all share their passion for sports and, of course, for ERDINGER Alkoholfrei after their workout.

You can see just how active the community is on our social media channels (@erdingeralkoholfrei.de). Team members post regularly here under #erdingeractiveteam.

Exclusive benefits for members

All team members can look forward to the big day in a relaxed manner and without the stress of competition. In the team lounge at the “MARATHON EXPO,” they have the opportunity to recover from the hustle and bustle of the trade fair, exchange ideas, and get last-minute tips. On the day of the race, they also have access to an exclusive service area in the immediate vicinity of the start and finish areas.

Premium and Basic Membership

Everyone can find their sporting home in the ERDINGER Active TEAM: an amazing community ensures that exercise is fun, motivates you to get started and chase new personal bests – team spirit is alive and well here! With great partner offers, the Active.Point rewards program, exclusive team merchandise, and free entry to numerous events, members benefit from a whole host of advantages.

Detailed information about the team is available at www.erdinger-active-team.de

Schneider Electric Named „Official Sustainability Partner” of the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON

As the Official Sustainability Partner of the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON, Schneider Electric is helping advance the event’s sustainability ambitions. The partnership aims to measurably reduce the environmental footprint of one of the world’s leading marathons through advanced energy technologies, strategic consulting, and digital solutions.

Driving Sustainable Transformation Through Energy Expertise

At the heart of the partnership is the development of a data-driven sustainability strategy. In 2026, Schneider Electric will develop a comprehensive carbon emission baseline for the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON. This assessment will establish a benchmark for measuring emissions, identifying the event’s most energy- and carbon-intensive activities, and provide the foundation for a long-term decarbonization roadmap.

In addition, Schneider Electric will provide recommendations to improve energy efficiency, electrify key processes, and implement digital monitoring solutions. These measures will enable transparent, data-driven tracking of sustainability performance and progress.

Through this partnership, Schneider Electric builds on its extensive experience supporting international sporting events. As the Official Sustainability Partner of the Boston Athletic Association (B.A.A.), organizer of the Bank of America Boston Marathon, the company is already helping drive the sustainable transformation of one of the world’s most iconic road races. Schneider Electric also served as an Official Supporter for Climate Contributions at the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games and supports the Schneider Electric Maas Marathon as well as other running events.

About Schneider Electric

Schneider Electric is a global leader in energy technology. By combining electrification, automation, and digitalization, the company drives efficiency and sustainability across industries, businesses, and buildings. Its technologies enable data centers, factories, and infrastructure to operate as open, connected ecosystems, enhancing performance, resilience, and sustainability.

The company’s portfolio includes intelligent products, software-defined architectures, AI-enabled systems, digital services, and comprehensive consulting services. With more than 160,000 employees worldwide and approximately one million partners across more than 100 countries, Schneider Electric has been recognized multiple times as the world’s most sustainable company.

Pressekontakt

Susanne Backe-Theis, External Comms Lead DACH

pr.germany@globalcommunications.se.com

HubSpot is the agentic customer platform that helps businesses connect and grow better. HubSpot delivers seamless connection for customer-facing teams with a unified platform that includes AI-powered engagement hubs, a Smart CRM, and a connected ecosystem with over 2,000 App Marketplace integrations, a community network, and educational content. Learn more at hubspot.de.

NORQAIN x BMW BERLIN-MARATHON 2026

Every runner has a different reason for standing on the start line. A personal best. A first marathon. A promise to themselves. At the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON, thousands of individual stories come together—and NORQAIN is proud to measure every second of them as the Official Timekeeper.

As the Swiss Mechanical Sport Watch Specialist and an independent challenger brand, NORQAIN was built for people who choose their own path, push beyond expectations, and refuse to settle for the ordinary. These same values define the marathon: courage, endurance, precision, and the will to keep moving forward.

Leading the way is the Wild ONE Skeleton 39mm— a mechanical sports watch designed to be worn in motion. Combining lightweight comfort, exceptional durability and a striking skeleton design, it's made for those who embrace every challenge. Now available in Hyper Pink, Sky Blue, Purple Ice Blue and Mint.

Every second counts on race day. That's why our NORQAIN Pacers are there to support runners from start to finish—helping them stay on pace with experience, encouragement and unwavering consistency. Whether chasing a personal best or crossing the marathon finish line for the very first time, they help turn months of preparation into an unforgettable achievement.

Be a NORQAINER – your life, your way

With Skin Fitness, Biotherm offers a complete range of premium skincare designed for active women and men seeking effective solutions for a fitter skin: a skin that looks younger, stronger, healthier, in shape for longer. Combining cutting-edge biotechnology, with Biotech Plankton™*, and the power of fitness supplements, Biotherm powers up skin cell metabolism. Biotherm: You Work Out, We Work In.

*Biotechnology stands for the life sciences for the production and processing of substances.

BLACKROLL® is the official Recovery Partner of the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON 2026. For us, recovery isn't a pause in the journey – it's part of it. Today's reset builds tomorrow's progress. That's why we're with runners every step of the way: before the race, during it, and after.

Find us at the BLACKROLL® booth at the expo for products and training tips. Look out for our Cheering Point at KM 36, cheering you on along the course. At the finish, COMPRESSION BOOTS, AIR LOUNGERS and more recovery tools are ready for your first step toward recovery.

BLACKROLL® AG I Brand & Company

Berlin runs on hydrogel.

As the official Hydrogel Sports Fuel Partner of the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON, Maurten will be on-course, fueling runners to Brandenburg Gate. Maurten Hydrogel Fuel Depots will be located at km 9, 15, 20, 25, 30, and 36 with Drink Mix 160 and km 27.5 with Gel 100.

Fueling is a race day essential — but athletes need to get used to it first. During training is the time to practice the art of fueling with Maurten Gel and Drink Mix — the same fuel available on race day.

Carbohydrates are the currency of fueling — to sustain performance, athletes need to consume them when training and racing. But carbohydrates can cause stomach issues for many athletes — meaning carbohydrate intake needs to be practiced during training.

With Maurten Hydrogel Technology, the hydrogel encapsulates the carbohydrates — making it easier for them to move quickly through the stomach to the intestines where they are absorbed and used as fuel. This allows runners to consume more carbohydrates per hour while being easy on the stomach.

The proof is in the performance.

https://www.maurten.com/events/berlin-marathon

Contact info:

Christina Gustavsson, PR Manager

press@maurten.com

LONGi Solar, Powering Every Step Forward

LONGi is a global leading solar technology company dedicated to advancing the world's energy transition through high-efficiency solar, storage and hydrogen innovation.

At LONGi, we believe that every great achievement begins with energy. Whether it comes from the sun or from within, energy empowers people to move forward, overcome challenges, and unlock their full potential.

As a global leader in solar technology and the Official Solar Partner of the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON 2026, LONGi is proud to stand alongside one of the world's most inspiring running communities. Every runner has a different story, a different motivation, and a different finish line. What connects them is the determination to keep going.

Guided by our campaign theme, "Power the Limitless," we celebrate the human energy behind every step and the shared belief that progress begins with purpose. Together with the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON, we are inspiring a future where innovation, sustainability, and human potential move forward—one step at a time.

Learn more about LONGi's BMW BERLIN-MARATHON partnership here: https://short.longi.digital/berlin-marathon-advert

Believe in it. Run for it.

Guaranteed places for charity runners in the world’s most popular endurance events with realbuzz, from here in beautiful Berlin to Miami, London and Milan. Where will you run with realbuzz whilst doing something amazing for the causes closest to your heart?

With full training and fundraising support throughout, we will be with you every step of the way:

• Guaranteed Race Entry
• Fundraising Support
• Rewards & Finishers Pack

Run for charity and make a difference. Run with realbuzz. Visit the website today www.realbuzz.com to learn more or follow us on Instagram to keep up to date with all the latest news @realbuzzcom.

VILSA is the flagship brand of the privately owned family business VILSA-BRUNNEN Otto Rodekohr GmbH. It is one of Germany’s leading mineral water brands and has been the market leader in northern Germany for many years. Now in its fourth generation, VILSA-BRUNNEN is guided by the belief that it should give something back to nature in return for the pure water it provides. Under its guiding principle #ProtectingTomorrowToday, the company is not only Germany’s largest provider of organic-certified mineral water and synonymous with the highest product quality, but is also strongly committed to environmental protection and transparency for consumers.

For more information, visit http://www.vilsa.de

Made for Ultra Moments! This is the motto our Galaxy RunnerzZz have been bringing to life across social media and in cities throughout Germany since May.

This year, the focus is on the Galaxy Watch Ultra2, high performance and new features such as Trail Running, which has been specifically tested in the mountains. An essential companion for content creators is the Galaxy S26 Ultra, which is always there to capture training routines and personal progress and share them with their communities.

Mario Winter, Vice President Marketing at Samsung, says: “Optimal performance starts with the right preparation. With our Galaxy RunnerzZz, we show how technology, training and tracking come together to support people in achieving their personal goals with the help of our smart innovations – including at Germany’s biggest running event of the year, the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON.”

Samsung will be visible at various touchpoints throughout the event: with premium devices at our Expo booth and directly along the course at the Samsung Cheering Zone. Here, a large billboard and a personalized message will provide an extra boost of motivation for runners.

Let’s run!

Power For Every Step

The BMW BERLIN-MARATHON is more than just a race. It is a global celebration of endurance, willpower, and the relentless drive to push beyond limits. Every year, tens of thousands of runners from over 150 nations take to the streets of Berlin, chasing personal bests on the world's fastest course. At UGREEN, we know that extraordinary journeys rely on consistent, unwavering support, whether that's the rhythm of your stride or the charge powering your devices.

As a global leader in consumer technology serving over 300 million users across 180+ countries and regions, UGREEN is proud to partner with the 2026 race. Since 2012, we have remained dedicated to putting users first. Backed by more than 2,100 global patents and 73 internationally recognized design awards, our mission is to empower people to stay connected and inspired. This commitment resonates with every runner chasing their next milestone.

This year, we are showcasing our latest innovations in high-performance power banks, fast chargers, and smart finders. Each product is built to keep you powered, prepared, and on track from start to finish. We believe that when your essentials perform without fail, you're free to focus on what matters most: the road ahead and the goals you've worked for

Keep an eye out for UGREEN activation zones throughout race weekend. After you cross the finish line past Berlin's iconic Brandenburg Gate, visit our UGREEN Finish Area to recharge your devices, capture your victory moments, and celebrate with fellow runners from around the world.

At UGREEN, we don't just create technology. We power every step of your journey.

https://www.ugreen.com

Press Contacts

Polina Zhang

polina.zhang@ugreen.com

Bella Chen

bella.chen@ugreen.com

Chiquita – Your Natural Charger on the Track

For the second time, Chiquita is the official banana sponsor of the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON. Our mission? To turn the world’s snack habits upside down. We’re here to prove, with every bite and every stride, that the banana isn’t just a simple fruit – it’s likely the best snack ever, even for runners.

They are the ultimate natural energy source – perfect before, during, or after a run. They’re quick and practical, with no packaging waste, and a real natural charger. On top of supplying runners with more than 120,000 bananas, Chiquita will bring endless energy to everyone at the event, creating unforgettable experiences for runners and spectators alike. From engaging activations and eye-catching photo opportunities to exciting giveaways, we’re bringing the marathon spirit to life – both on the streets of Berlin and across Germany through vibrant social media content and a running club.

Event Dates & Locations

• 24-26 September: Expo at Tempelhof Airport at Stand 07.07.00 – Free entry
• 27 September: BMW BERLIN-MARATHON

Marathon Day

• Supplying runners with organic Chiquita bananas
• A total of 6 refreshment stations along the course
• Cheering point
• Booth at the finish line

Expo Highlights

• Entertaining activities
• Cool giveaways to take home

With this fresh positioning, Chiquita is making a clear statement: we’re not just part of the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON. We’re the snack that takes you all the way to the finish line.

More at: @chiquitabananadeutschland

Tagesspiegel is the exclusive media partner from Berlin of the 52st BMW BERLIN-MARATHON 

The Tagesspiegel will continue to cover Berlin's major running and sport events in 2026. The highlight will be the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON. The running event on September 27, 2026 will be accompanied by extensive coverage in print and online.

To get in the mood for the race, the Tagesspiegel editorial team is planning interviews, portraits and background reports. A special supplement in the Tagesspiegel on September 22 - the day after the event - will exclusively contain the results with all the information on runners and their times as well as the best stories about the marathon. Other sporting events covered by the Tagesspiegel this year included the GENERALI BERLIN HALF MARATHON (March 29), the Vitamin Well Berlin Women’s Run (May 16) with the “Women Who Run in the Dark” training runs, the Berlin Tennis Open (June 13–22), and the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup (September 4–13).

About the Tagesspiegel

Der Tagesspiegel has developed very successfully in recent years and is now number one in Berlin in terms of circulation and journalistic significance, both in print and digitally. Tagesspiegel has also established itself as a national media brand and reaches 432,000 decision-makers nationwide across all media (print/e-paper + online + apps). This is confirmed by the Leseranalyse Entscheidungsträger 2026. It is one of the most cited newspapers in Germany and reaches more political decision-makers in the capital than all national subscription newspapers. In the latest IVW surveys, the Tagesspiegel recorded one of the best circulation trends of all German newspapers. The editorial team and publishing house are continually being expanded to meet the challenges of the media market with innovations. Like Die Zeit, Handelsblatt and Wirtschaftswoche, Tagesspiegel belongs to Dieter von Holtzbrinck's DvH Medien GmbH.

Note: The Tagesspiegel editorial team makes all decisions on the type and scope of reporting itself and independently of the interests of third parties, including those of its own publishing house.

Contact Tagesspiegel Press Office

Meike von Wysocki

Phone: +49 (0) 30 290 21-11020

E-mail: pressestelle@tagesspiegel.de

https://www.tagesspiegel-gruppe.de/presse

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/verlag-der-tagesspiegel-gmbh/

21 September 2025

Sabastian Sawe produced the crowning moment of the BMW BERLIN MARATHON when he achieved a world-class time despite very high temperatures. The Kenyan took the race in a world leading time of 2:02:16. It was the ninth fastest time ever at that time and a “Warm weather world record“ which is of course not an official mark. No-one has run such a fast time in so warm conditions. 30 year-old Sabastian Sawe was almost four minutes ahead of second placed Akira Akasaki of Japan who clocked 2:06:15. Ethiopia’s Chimdessa Debele took third in 2:06:57. Hendrik Pfeiffer finished eighth, which was the best position by a German male runner since 1990.

There was a close finish in the women’s race. Kenyan Rosemary Wanjiru crossed the line in 2:21:05. She was just three seconds ahead of Ethiopia’s Dera Dida. Azmera Gebru of Ethiopia followed in third with 2:21:29. Germans Fabienne Königstein and Domenika Mayer achieved personal bests and strong top ten positions. Königstein finished sixth with 2:22:17 and became the third fastest German woman ever. Mayer followed in eighth with 2:23:16. With this time she was in fourth position in the German all-time list.

More than 55,000 entries from 160 nations were registered for the 51st BMW BERLIN-MARATHON. 48,361 reached the finish line. Germany’s most spectacular road race confirmed its position among the world’s biggest marathons.

MEN: 1. Sabastian Sawe (KEN) 2:02:16, 2. Akira Akasaki (JPN) 2:06:15, 3. Chimdessa Debele (ETH) 2:06:57. WOMEN: 1. Rosemary Wanjiru (KEN) 2:21:05, 2. Dera Dida (ETH) 2:21:08, 3. Azmera Gebru (ETH) 2:21:29. WHEELCHAIRS: 1. Marcel Hug (SUI) 1:21:46 - 1. Manuela Schär (SUI) 1:35:08. HANDBIKER: 1. Joseph Fritsch (FRA) 0:57:53 - 1. Annika Zeyen-Giles (GER) 1:10:38.

29th September 2024

Ethiopians Milkesa Mengesha and Tigist Ketema won the 50th anniversary race of the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON with world-class times. Under very good weather conditions, Mengesha triumphed in 2:03:17 hours, marking the third fastest time globally at that point in the year. Behind the 24-year-old, Kenyan Cybrian Kotut finished second in 2:03:22, followed by Haymanot Alew (Ethiopia) in 2:03:31. Fourth place went to Stephen Kiprop (Kenya) with a strong time of 2:03:37. Germany's best runner, somewhat surprisingly, was Sebastian Hendel (LG Braunschweig), achieving a strong personal best of 2:07:33 and placing 17th. The 28-year-old became the fifth fastest German runner of all time.

^{Milkesa Mengesha wins the 50th BMW BERLIN-MARATHON in 2:03:17 hours. © SCC EVENTS / Jean-Marc Wiesner}

Tigist Ketema claimed a dominant victory in 2:16:42, marking the third fastest time in the 50-year history of the race. Her compatriots Mestawot Fikir and Bosena Mulatie secured second and third places with times of 2:18:48 and 2:19:00, respectively. The fastest German woman, Melat Kejeta (Laufteam Kassel), finished eleventh with a time of 2:23:40 at the Brandenburg Gate.

^{Tigist Ketema triumphs at the 50th BMW BERLIN-MARATHON with a time of 2:16:42 hours. © SCC EVENTS / Jean-Marc Wiesner}

While the Berlin anniversary race did not break any major records, it was an outstanding event. Combining the two winning times resulted in a total of 4:19:59 hours. Thus, the 50th edition was the twelfth best marathon of all time up to that point and the fourth best in Berlin's history. Additionally, for the first time in the race's history, four men finished under 2:04:00, 22 under 2:08:00, and 28 under 2:10:00.

A record number of 54,166 athletes completed the race, making the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON the largest marathon of all time up to that point, with participants from 161 nations.

Results: MEN: 1. Milkesa Mengesha (ETH) 2:03:17, 2. Cybrian Kotut (KEN) 2:03:22, 3. Haymanot Alew (ETH) 2:03:31. WOMEN: 1. Tigist Ketema (ETH) 2:16:42, 2. Mestawot Fikir (ETH) 2:18:48, 3. Bosena Mulatie (ETH) 2:19:00. WHEELCHAIR: 1. Marcel Hug (SUI) 1:27:18 - 1. Catherine Debrunner (SUI) 1:35:23. HANDCYCLE: 1. Vico Merklein (GER) 1:04:46 - Francesca Porcellato (ITA) 1:17:44.

24th September 2023

Tigst Assefa won the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON with a world record straight out of the realms of fairy tale. The Ethiopian crossed the finish line in a sensational time of 2:11:53, obliterating the world record of Kenya’s Brigid Kosgei who ran 2:14:04 in Chicago in 2019. The scale of improvement was huge, 2 minutes, 11 seconds, marking an achievement of historic proportions. The last time the women’s world record featured such an improvement was 40 years ago when the American Joan Benoit brought the time down from 2:25:29 to 2:22:43 in 1988. Tigst Assefa was faster than some of the men’s winners of the Berlin Marathon back in the 80ies. Belgium’s Karel Lismont clocked 2:13:37 in 1983 and a year later John Skovbjerg of Denmark took the race with 2:13:35. Tigst Assefa’s world record was the 13th in the history of the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON.

^{The Ethiopian Tigst Assefa won in a fabulous world record time of 2:11:53 hours. © SCC EVENTS/Jean-Marc Wiesner}

Eliud Kipchoge also continued his record breaking, if only in terms of the number of his wins in Berlin. The Kenyan achieved his fifth triumph here with his world-class time of 2:02:42. Although the 38-year-old finished well outside his world record of 2:01:09, this was nonetheless the eighth fastest performance of all time. In terms of the combined winners’ times, the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON became the fastest race at the distance in history with a total time of 4:14:35. It was the second time since 1999 that the race in Berlin held both marathon world records. Additionally for the first time Berlin became the fastest women’s marathon with an average of 2:17:27,4 (average of the ten fastest times ever run in a race).

^{Eliud Kipchoge achieved his fifth Berlin win in a world-class time of 2:02:42 hours. © SCC EVENTS/Jean-Marc Wiesner}

Amanal Petros also contributed a slice of German marathon history in smashing his own national record with 2:04:58 for ninth place. His time would have been worth a world record 20 years ago. It was also a first for the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON, never before had the race produced a national men’s record since its inception in 1974. Domenika Mayer surprisingly became the second fastest German women’s marathoner in history. She finished 14th with 2:23:47.

MEN: 1. Eliud Kipchoge (KEN) 2:02:42 (WR), 2. Vincent Kipkemoi (KEN) 2:03:13, 3. Tadese Takele (ETH) 2:03:24. WOMEN: 1. Tigist Assefa (ETH) 2:11:53, 2. Sheila Chepkirui (KEN) 2:17:49, 3. Magdalena Shauri (TAN) 2:18:41. WHEELCHAIRS: 1. Marcel Hug (SUI) 1:23:07 - 1. Catherine Debrunner (SUI) 1:34:16. HANDBIKERS: 1. Joseph Fritsch (FRA) 1:00:05 - 1. Julia Dierkesmann (GER) 1:17:51.

You can access the other annual documentation here.

In 2025, 48,361 runners (31,072 men, 17,232 women, 57 diverse) crossed the finish line at the BMW BERLIN MARATHON.

The Siegessäule (victory column in the Tiergarten) will feature on the medals of the 52st BMW BERLIN MARATHON. All athletes who finish the classic distance will receive the medal.

Additionally there will be a smaller number of remembrance medals that will show Günter Hallas. The Berliner won the first edtion of the BERLIN-MARATHON back in 1974 with 2:44:53. Günter Hallas died earlier this year in April at the age of 84.

On September 21, 2025, the weather was sunny with a light southerly wind and temperatures ranging from 20°C to 24°C. Relative humidity was between 65% and 75%.

In 2024, Milkesa Mengesha (ETH) won the BMW BERLIN MARATHON with a time of 2:03:17, and Tigst Ketema (ETH) won with a time of 2:16:42.

In 2025, Rosemary Wanjiru (KEN) won the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON in 2:21:05, while Sabastian Sawe (KEN) claimed the men's title in 2:02:16.

Complete list of all BMW BERLIN-MARATHON winners.

Click here for the world and course records (PDF) set in Berlin.

On 26 April 2026, Sabastian Sawe ran 1:59:30 at the London Marathon, setting the current men's marathon world record.

In 2024, Ruth Chepngetich won the Chicago Marathon in a sensational 2:09:56, setting the current women's marathon world record.

The late Kenyan Kelvin Kiptum set what was then the men's marathon world record on 8 October 2023, clocking 2:00:35 at the Chicago Marathon.

Find the history and progression of the marathon world records (PDF) here.

World Records

European Records

African Records

North American Records

South American Records

Asian-Records

Oceania Records

Commonwealth Records

Junior World Records *

German Records

Course Records

Yearly World Best Performances 2026

European Yearly Best Performances 2026

German Yearly Best Performances 2026

*The international athletics federation IAAF does not maintain official marathon world records for junior athletes.

Men

Women

In 2025, Sabastian Sawe (KEN) achieved the world’s fastest time of the year with 2:02:16 hours in Berlin. In the women’s category, Joyciline Jepkosgei (KEN) set the year’s best performance with a time of 2:14:00 hours.

Previous annual world’s best times.

Men

Women

Men

Women

Men

Women

Men

Women

Men

Women

Men

Women

In the women's marathon, Irina Mikitenko holds the German record with a time of 2:19:19.

In the men's marathon, Amanal Petros holds the German record with 2:04:03, improving on the previous record of 2:04:56 set by Samuel Fitwi.

Progression of the German marathon records.

Eliud Kipchoge 2022

Eliud Kipchoge improved his own world record, which was also the course record, by exactly 30 seconds to 2:01:09.

Tigst Assefa 2023

Tigst Assefa ran a phenomenal world record and became the first woman to achieve a sub 2:12:00 time.