Could Australia see Sawe? Sydney Marathon to chase sub-two hour stars
Sydney Marathon organisers are in talks to secure top marathon runners Sebastian Sawe and Yomif Kejelcha for the August 2026 race, following their sub-two-hour performances in London. Sawe made history by becoming the first man to legally break the two-hour barrier with a 1:59:30 finish. Event director Wayne Larden confirmed negotiations are intensifying, though budget and scheduling will influence the outcome. The Sydney course, known for its elevation, is not conducive to record times, but attracting elite stars would boost the event's profile.
- ▪Sebastian Sawe became the first man to legally run a marathon under two hours, finishing the 2026 London Marathon in 1:59:30.
- ▪Yomif Kejelcha also ran under two hours in London, finishing second in 1:59:41, while Jacob Kiplimo broke the previous world record.
- ▪Sydney Marathon is seeking to sign Sawe, Kejelcha, or Kiplimo for its August 30, 2026 race as part of World Marathon Major commitments.
- ▪The Sydney course has 313 metres of elevation, the highest among World Marathon Majors, making it unsuitable for sub-two-hour attempts.
- ▪Event director Wayne Larden said appearance fees, athlete schedules, and budget will determine whether top London finishers join the Sydney field.
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