American star and fan favourite Conner Mantz has withdrawn from the Boston Marathon on 20 April.
Mantz was fourth in the race last year and then broke the long-standing American record for the distance at the Chicago Marathon in October, where he ran 2:04:43 as he again filled fourth place.
The 29-year-old also claimed the national half marathon record in a breakout 2025, set at Houston.
However he then suffered a stress fracture in his sacrum and the build to Boston has been a challenge.
‘Very disappointed’
In a statement released in conjunction with the race organisers, Mantz said: “Unfortunately, my fitness has not progressed well enough for me to be able to race the upcoming Boston Marathon at my best.
“I am very disappointed but I look forward to being back racing soon.”
Mantz had hoped to make it onto the podium this year and his absence is a big shame for the race too – which is held on Patriot’s Day – as he was one of the star names.
Korir back to defend title
Heading the field is Kenya’s John Korir who recovered from a fall at the start to win last year’s race.
And he ended last season with an impressive 2:02:24 to win the Valencia Marathon in December 7 and move into the top 10 on the all-time list.
Boston takes place just six days before the London Marathon which has again attracted super-strong elite fields, with the men’s line-up headlined by defending champion Sabastian Sawe (KEN) and Jacob Kiplimo (UGA).
Mantz meanwhile will look to regain his best form as he reassesses his 2026 campaign.
