Kitata Wins Thriller by Photo Finish as Vainio Breaks National Record at 2026 Seville Marathon
Seville, Spain – February 15, 2026 – The 41st edition of the Zurich Seville Marathon delivered one of the most dramatic finishes in the race’s history on Sunday, highlighted by a photo-finish sprint in the men’s race and a national record performance in the women’s event.
Kitata Prevails in Epic Men’s Duel
Ethiopia’s Shura Kitata Tola claimed victory in a breathtaking sprint finish, edging compatriot Asrar Abderehman after both athletes crossed the line in 2:03:58. The winner had to be determined by photo finish following a gripping head-to-head battle over the final meters.
The leading pack maintained an aggressive but controlled pace throughout the race, with the decisive move only coming in the closing stretch along Seville’s fast, flat course. The winning time ranks among the fastest ever recorded in the event’s 41-year history, reaffirming Seville’s reputation as one of Europe’s quickest marathon circuits.
Alisa Vainio Shines with Finnish Record
In the women’s race, Alisa Vainio of Finland delivered a landmark performance, winning in 2:20:39 to set a new Finnish national marathon record. Vainio surged in the latter stages of the race, pulling clear to secure the biggest victory of her career.
Kenya’s Beatrice Cheserek finished second in 2:21:56, while Ethiopia’s Mulat Tekle Godu completed the podium in 2:22:03.
Record Participation and Faster Course
The 2026 edition also marked a milestone for the event with a record 17,000 registered runners, approximately 3,000 more than last year, representing over 100 nationalities. Organizers introduced minor course adjustments designed to enhance speed by reducing turns and elevation changes, contributing to strong overall performances across the elite and mass fields.
With dramatic elite racing, national records, and growing international prestige, the Zurich Seville Marathon once again confirmed its place among Europe’s premier marathon events.
TOP RESULTS MEN'S MARATHON
- Shura Kitata Tola – 2:03:59
- Asrar Hiyrden Abderehman – 2:03:59
- Dejene Hailu Bikila – 2:04:15
- Justus Kipkorir Limo – 2:04:55
- Capital Degefa Tola – 2:05:36
- Tsedat Abeje Ayana – 2:06:32
- Feyisa Mulu Gudisa – 2:06:34
- Limenih Getachew Yizengaw – 2:07:16
- Bukayawe Malede – 2:07:38
- Lotory Woldegiorgis Mamo – 2:07:50
TOP RESULTS WOMEN'S MARATHON
- Alisa Vainio – 2:20:39
- Beatrice Jepchichir Cheserek – 2:21:56
- Mulat Tekle Godu – 2:22:03
- Elisa Palmero – 2:24:10
- Fátima Azzaharaa Ouhaddou Nafie – 2:24:16
- Jackline Chelal – 2:24:19
- Rebecca Lonedo – 2:24:28
- Rebecca Chepkwemoi – 2:24:52
- Tereza Hrochová – 2:25:58
- Samrawit Mengsteab – 2:26:33
