Valencia, Spain
The 2026 Valencia Marathon Trinidad Alfonso Zurich is set to deliver another high-caliber showdown, with Ethiopian stars Yomif Kejelcha and Fotyen Tesfay headlining a formidable elite field for the December 6 race.
Race organizers confirmed that Kejelcha, who stunned the athletics world with a 1:59:41 debut in London, will return for his second marathon appearance. He will be joined by compatriot Tesfay, who boasts a personal best of 2:10:52. The duo currently hold the second-fastest marathon times in history in their respective categories, positioning them as early favorites in what is shaping up to be one of the most competitive editions yet.
Defending champions John Korir of Kenya and compatriot Joyciline Jepkosgei are also set to return to Valencia, aiming to retain their titles. Korir won the 2025 edition in 2:02:24, while Jepkosgei secured victory in 2:14:00 — both setting personal bests on Valencia’s famously fast course.
The men’s field features a deep roster of contenders, including Kenya’s Alexander Mutiso (2:03:11), Ethiopia’s Dawit Wolde (2:03:48), Nibret Melak (2:04:00), and Leul Gebreselassie (2:04:02), the 2018 Valencia champion. Norway’s Awet Kibrab (2:04:24) also adds international depth. In total, seven athletes in the current lineup have recorded times under 2:04:30, with more elite entrants expected to be announced in the coming months.
The women’s race is equally competitive, with several high-profile challengers targeting Tesfay and Jepkosgei. American record holder Emily Sisson (2:18:29) and Finland’s Alisa Vainio (2:20:39) lead a strong international contingent, alongside Kenya’s Lilian Kasait (2:19:35) and Ethiopia’s Aberu Ayana (2:20:20).
Ethiopia’s Ejgayehu Taye, who previously faced setbacks in Valencia but owns an impressive half marathon personal best of 1:04:14, will also be one to watch. Rising talent Winnie Jepkosgei is set to make her debut, while organizers have indicated that at least one additional high-profile female athlete will be announced later this year.Marc Roig, the race’s elite athlete coordinator, emphasized the unpredictability of this year’s competition.
“With both 2025 champions returning and athletes like Yomif and Fotyen now confirmed, defending those titles will be extremely challenging,” Roig said. “In Valencia, predicting a winner is impossible — and that’s exactly how we want it.”
Known for its flat and fast course, the Valencia Marathon continues to attract world-class talent and record-breaking performances, reinforcing its reputation as one of the premier marathon events on the global athletics calendar.
