Tokyo Marathon 2026: Olympic Champions, Defending Winners Set for First World Major of the Year
February 25, 2026
By
Anna F.
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.
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.