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Tokyo Marathon 2026: Olympic Champions, Defending Winners Set for First World Major of the Year

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Matteo Sargenti

Published on February 25, 2026

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Tokyo Marathon 2026 kicks off the World Marathon Majors on March 1, with Tadese Takele defending his title against Barega, Mutiso and a loaded field, while Kebede, Kosgei and Hawi Feysa headline the women’s race.

Tokyo Marathon 2026: Olympic Champions, Defending Winners Set for First World Major of the Year

​The 2026 Tokyo Marathon will open the World Marathon Major calendar on 1st march, bringing together Olympic champions, defending winners, and a deep international field chasing one of the sport’s most prestigious titles.

​In the men’s race, defending champion Tadese Takele (ETH) returns after his breakthrough victory last year.

Tadese Takele (Credit: Getty Images)

​He is joined by 2024 runner up Alexander Mutiso (KEN), who clocked 2:03:11, and a stacked Kenyan and Ethiopian contingent including Timothy Kiplangat, Vincent Kipkemoi Ngetich, Milkesa Mengesha, and Daniel Mateiko.

​Olympic 10,000m gold medalist Selemon Barega (ETH) adds further weight to the field, stepping onto the marathon stage once again.

Selemon Barega (Credit: Getty Images)

​Japan’s hopes rest on proven names such as Suguru Osako and Kengo Suzuki, both capable of challenging on home soil.

​The women’s race is equally competitive.

​Chicago Marathon champion Hawi Feysa (ETH) headlines the field alongside former world record holder Brigid Kosgei (KEN).

Two time Tokyo winner Sutume Asefa Kebede (ETH) is chasing a third consecutive victory. American Sara Hall, Rosemary Wanjiru, and a strong Japanese lineup including Ai Hosoda round out a deep start list.

Sutume Asefa Kebede (Credit: Getty Images)

​With $147,500 in prize money available in each race and $80,000 awarded to the winners, Tokyo once again attracts the sport’s elite.

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