Kejelcha and Tesfay lead elite lineup with big ambitions for Valencia Marathon 2026

The Valencia Marathon Trinidad Alfonso Zurich has announced the first names of the international elite field who will fight for ambitious goals on December 6th. Joining the return of Yomif Kejelcha to Valencia—to run his second marathon after his excellent debut in London (1:59:41)—is his compatriot Fotyen Tesfay (2:10:52). Both currently hold the second-fastest world times in the men’s and women’s categories, respectively, and will be the top favorites in a lineup that includes other major stars.

2025 Winners Return

The 2026 Valencia Marathon will also feature last year’s winners, Kenyans John Korir (2:02:24) and Joyciline Jepkosgei (2:14:00). Both will return to the fast Valencian course aiming to repeat their victories and lower their personal bests over the 42,195-meter distance, which they both achieved precisely in Valencia in 2025.

Four More Men Added to the Elite List

In the men’s category, Alexander Mutiso (2:03:11), Dawit Wolde (2:03:48), Nibret Melak (2:04:00), Leul Gebreselassie (2:04:02 and 2018 race winner), and Norway’s Awet Kibrab (2:04:24) are some of the names in this first preview of the international elite. With seven runners already boasting times under 2:04:30, more contenders aiming for great times and national records will continue to be added.

A Top-Tier Women’s Field

The story is the same in the women’s category, where other athletes will run fast to challenge the favoritism of Tesfay and Jepkosgei. This is the case for American Emily Sisson (2:18:29) and Finland’s Alisa Vainio (2:20:39)—both national record holders—alongside Kenya’s Lilian Kasait (2:19:35) and Ethiopia’s Aberu Ayana (2:20:20).

Hopes are also high for Ejgayehu Taye, who had no luck previously in Valencia (but holds a 1:04:14 half marathon PR), and debutant Winnie Jepkosgei. Furthermore, at least one more world-class name for the women’s field will be announced this autumn.

Marc Roig: “Victory in Valencia is unpredictable”

Marc Roig, the international elite athletes coordinator, shared his thoughts on this first announcement: “This year, both the men’s and women’s winners from 2025 are returning, although with the confirmations of Yomif and Fotyen, defending the title will be very difficult. Once again, victory in Valencia is unpredictable. Just the way we like it.”