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Sawe Withdraws From Berlin Marathon With Injury

8/27/2026

31 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Sawe Withdraws from Berlin

Sabastian Sawe withdrew from the BMW Berlin Marathon on September 27, 2026 because of injury.
Race Director Mark Milde said organizers regret Sawe’s absence and wish him a swift recovery.
Two-time winner Tigist Assefa, 2023 marathon world-record holder, will compete aiming to break the record again.
German runner Esther Pfeiffer plans to challenge the national marathon record at the Berlin race.

Summary

Ruto Rewards Sawe

President William Ruto gave Sawe cash and a car after his London sub-two-hour marathon record.
Sawe received a hero’s welcome at Nairobi’s airport, with cheering crowds.
About 55,000 runners are expected and a Marathon Expo runs Sep 24-25.
Men’s elite field includes Tanzania’s Gabriel Geay (PB 2:03:00) and Ethiopia’s Olympic champion Selemon Barega.

History

Historical Context

2003 saw Kenyan sport rise as the nation reached the Rugby World Cup semi-finals, while athletics celebrated Hicham El Guerrouj’s fourth consecutive world-track title. The year’s surge of record-breaking performances foreshadowed the Berlin Marathon’s reputation for fast times, highlighting Kenya’s continued global international marathon dominance.

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Sawe Withdraws from Berlin

Sabastian Sawe withdrew from the BMW Berlin Marathon on September 27, 2026 because of injury.
Race Director Mark Milde said organizers regret Sawe’s absence and wish him a swift recovery.
Two-time winner Tigist Assefa, 2023 marathon world-record holder, will compete aiming to break the record again.
German runner Esther Pfeiffer plans to challenge the national marathon record at the Berlin race.

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