In a major blow to the elite field of this year’s London Marathon, Olympic champion Sifan Hassan has been forced to withdraw after sustaining an Achilles injury during training.
The Dutch distance star, known for her incredible versatility across track and road events, picked up the injury during a treadmill session, cutting short her preparations for one of the most anticipated races on the global marathon calendar. Her absence will be keenly felt, especially given her strong history in the event and reputation as one of the sport’s fiercest competitors.
Hassan, who etched her name in Olympic history with a gold medal at the Paris 2024 Olympics, has consistently been among the most dominant figures in long-distance running. Born in Ethiopia and later representing the Netherlands, she previously claimed double gold in the 5000m and 10000m at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, showcasing her extraordinary endurance and tactical brilliance.
Reflecting on her withdrawal, Hassan admitted the decision was far from easy. “To compete at that level, you need to be in perfect condition,” she said. “After the incident, 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.”
The 33-year-old had been aiming to return strongly to London, where she produced a memorable performance to win the race in 2023. Her ability to surge late and handle high-pressure situations had made her one of the standout names on the start list for the 2026 edition, scheduled for April 26.
Hassan’s withdrawal not only reshapes the competitive landscape of the race but also highlights the physical demands of elite marathon preparation. Even the slightest injury can derail months of training, especially for athletes competing at the highest level where margins are minimal.
While her immediate focus will now shift to recovery, Hassan’s track record suggests she will be determined to return stronger. With major championships and road races still ahead in the season, managing her fitness will be crucial as she looks to maintain her position among the world’s best.
As the London Marathon approaches, the spotlight will now turn to the remaining contenders, but Hassan’s absence leaves a noticeable void in what promised to be a thrilling contest on the streets of the British capital.
