Sabastian Sawe Returns to Berlin Marathon After Historic Sub-Two-Hour Run

Kenya’s marathon superstar Sabastian Sawe will return to the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON on September 27, organisers of Germany’s biggest and most prestigious marathon confirmed on Sunday. Just over two weeks ago, the 31-year-old made history in London by becoming the first athlete to produce a record-eligible marathon performance under two hours, clocking a sensational world record of 1:59:30 and breaking one of athletics’ greatest barriers.

Sawe, who is also the reigning World Half Marathon Champion, has now won all four marathons of his career, running under 2:02:30 on every occasion. His remarkable streak began with a victorious debut in Valencia in 2024, where he ran 2:02:05, before following it up with triumphs in London (2:02:27) and Berlin (2:02:16) in 2025, and now his historic sub-two-hour run in London.

Given that London is not traditionally regarded as one of the fastest marathon courses in the world, Sawe’s record performance suggests he may still have the potential to push the world record even further. His decision to return to Berlin — widely considered the fastest marathon course on the planet — immediately fuels speculation that another historic performance could be on the horizon.

“I am very happy to return to BMW BERLIN-MARATHON and to defend my title. Many people may be wondering what my goals are this time round. After coming off my win in London and a sub-2 performance, I can only say that, like always, I plan to prepare myself to the best of my ability and to come to Berlin to honor this great event and organisation and to run as well and fast as possible. Then on the day we will see what will happen. I look forward to again experiencing the fantastic atmosphere and crowds that line the course,” said Sabastian Sawe.

“We are absolutely delighted to welcome Sabastian Sawe back to the BMW BERLIN-MARATHON. With his impressive development and his historic world record, he has firmly written his name into the history books of marathon running. The fact that Sabastian chose to return to Berlin is a great recognition of the global standing of our event and its fast course,” said Race Director Mark Milde. “If all conditions are right on race day, the weather cooperates and Sabastian is in top shape, then anything is possible.”