Kosgei Shatters Chinese All-Comers’ Record as Mengesha Wins Thriller in Shanghai

Brigid Kosgei delivered a breathtaking performance at the Shanghai Marathon on Sunday, racing to 2:16:36—the fastest time ever recorded on Chinese soil and the third-quickest of her career. The former world record-holder dominated the World Athletics Platinum Label event from the gun, eventually winning by more than two minutes over compatriot Irine Cheptai (2:18:51). It is just the second time in history that a woman has won the Shanghai Marathon.

"I'm thrilled to have improved my best time this year. I was targeting 2 hours and 17 minutes, but I did even better. "Thanks to everyone who cheered me on," Kosgei told reporters after winning the race.

Kosgei, who has been in superb form all year with sub-2:19 runs in Hamburg and Sydney, broke away after halfway and continued to extend her margin, crossing the line for her fastest marathon since 2021. Ethiopia’s Tiruye Mesfin completed the podium in 2:20:38.

In contrast, the men’s race produced a dramatic showdown. A large lead pack stayed together through halfway, but by 35km the battle had narrowed to Ethiopia’s Milkesa Mengesha, Dawit Wolde, and Deresa Geleta. After Geleta began to fade, Mengesha surged in the final straight to win in 2:06:25, just two seconds ahead of Wolde. Geleta held on for third in 2:06:36, securing an Ethiopian sweep.

View Shanghai Marathon Results Here