Chinese fitness influencer Abeeeer finished the Berlin Marathon in 4:53:46 on September 27, celebrating a personal record before online investigators discovered she spent a portion of the race riding on the back of a bicycle around kilometer 38.
How the Marathon Investigation Unfolded
The controversy emerged when the Official Marathon Time Integrity Unit, an Instagram-based group that reviews suspicious race performances, published photographs showing Abeeeer on a bicycle late in the course. Tracking data later revealed that her fastest five-kilometer split of the entire race occurred between kilometer 35 and 40, matching the exact section where she was photographed receiving a ride. Despite posting a completion time of 4:53:46, tracking evidence contradicted the official finish.
Abeeeer Issues Public Apology
On October 3, Abeeeer acknowledged the rule violations in an online statement without offering justifications. She wrote that she would not defend her behavior and admitted the deception continued even after she stepped off the bicycle. Describing her actions as an unfair act that compromised the sporting integrity of the event, she stated that she felt deeply guilty about the incident despite feeling unwell during parts of the race.
Brooks Terminates Partnership
Athletic brand Brooks, which provided Abeeeer with apparel and footwear, ended its sponsorship immediately following verification of the incident. In a statement obtained by the integrity unit, the company admitted that post-race checks focused primarily on results and supplied gear rather than a detailed audit of segment data and actual course traversal. Brooks stated that it failed to thoroughly check participation details and confirmed it will never work with her again, while offering apologies to runners and consumers.
Over 50,000 Runners Finish Berlin Marathon
The Berlin Marathon ranks among the world’s largest distance running events, drawing more than 56,000 registrants from 162 countries for this year’s race, with over 50,000 participants reaching the finish line under their own power.
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