Olympic Champion Sifan Hassan Withdraws from London Marathon with Achilles Injury
LONDON, UK – Dutch distance running star Sifan Hassan has withdrawn from the 2026 London Marathon due to an Achilles injury, race organizers announced Monday. The 33-year-old, who claimed gold in the marathon at the 2024 Paris Olympics, sustained the injury during a treadmill training session.
Hassan, known for her versatility across multiple distances, expressed her disappointment at being unable to compete. “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,” she said in a statement. “To compete at this level, you need to be in perfect condition. I have to listen to my body and focus on recovering properly.”
Hassan’s withdrawal is a significant blow to the London Marathon field. She won the event in 2023 and was considered a strong contender for the title again this year. The London Marathon, scheduled for April 26, is one of the most prestigious road races in the world, part of the “World Marathon Majors” series that also includes Tokyo, Boston, Berlin, Sydney, Chicago, and New York.
The Ethiopian-born Dutch runner has enjoyed a remarkable career, demonstrating exceptional range from 5,000 meters to the marathon. She secured Olympic gold in the 5,000m and 10,000m at the 2020 Tokyo Games, and added a marathon title to her collection in Paris last year. Her versatility and consistent performance have established her as one of the leading distance runners of her generation. According to Wikipedia, Hassan currently holds the world ranking of No. 1 in the marathon as of 2025.
The Achilles injury occurred during training, a common issue for marathon runners who subject their bodies to intense and repetitive stress. The Achilles tendon, located at the back of the ankle, is crucial for walking, running, and jumping. Injuries to this tendon can be debilitating and require significant recovery time.
Hassan’s decision to prioritize her health reflects the demanding nature of elite athletics. The recovery process for an Achilles injury can be lengthy, and returning to competition too soon could risk further damage. Her focus now will be on rehabilitation and preparing for future races.
The 2026 London Marathon will still feature a competitive field, but Hassan’s absence leaves a notable gap. Fans were looking forward to seeing if she could repeat her 2023 victory and further cement her legacy as a distance running icon.
What’s Next: Hassan will focus on recovery and rehabilitation. A timeline for her return to competition has not yet been announced. Updates on her progress will be provided by her team as they become available.
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