Reigning Olympic champion Sifan Hassan has withdrawn from what promises to be a race for the ages at this year’s TCS London Marathon on 26 April.
The Dutch star, who won in London in 2023 after an epic finish, had been scheduled to take on rivals Tigst Assefa, the defending champion and women-only world record holder, and Peres Jepchirchir – the reigning World champion.
The last time the three met was at the Paris Games in 2024 when Hassan out-kicked Assefa in the closing stages.
Achilles the issue
However a press release from the London Marathon earlier today (23 March) revealed that Hassan “has been hampered by an Achilles injury which has impacted her training”.
It continued: “Hassan picked up the injury following an unfortunate incident while training on the treadmill six weeks ago. Initially the injury was believed to be minor, and she continued to train but, as her preparations for the TCS London Marathon intensified, the Dutch athlete was unable to progress as planned.
“After careful assessment, Hassan has now decided to withdraw from the 2026 TCS London Marathon to avoid aggravating the injury. After a demanding period of training and competition last year, which saw her run three Abbott World Marathon Majors – London, Sydney and New York – she has opted to prioritise her recovery and long-term health.”
‘Tough decision’
Hassan herself added: “This has been a very tough decision to make. I love racing the TCS London Marathon; it is where I won my first-ever marathon, and I have so many special memories there.
“But it is also the highest-quality marathon on the planet, and to compete at that level, you need to be in perfect condition.
“After the incident, I hoped the injury would settle, but as training progressed it became clear that I wasn’t able to prepare at the level I expect from myself. I have to listen to my body and focus on recovering properly.
“I look forward to returning to race in London again on plenty more occasions in the future.”
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