John Korir and Sharon Lokedi delivered dominant performances at the 2026 Boston Marathon, both achieving record-breaking wins. Korir defended his title, while Lokedi secured her second consecutive victory in a day of exceptional distance running.

Korir Shatters Boston Marathon Record

Kenyan runner John Korir ran an astonishing 2 hours, 1 minute, and 52 seconds, breaking the Boston Marathon course record previously held by Geoffrey Mutai since 2011 (2:03:02). This time ranks as the fifth-fastest marathon time in history.

Men's Race Results

  • 1st: John Korir (Kenya) - 2:01:52
  • 2nd: Alphonce Felix Simbu (Tanzania) - 2:02:47
  • 3rd: Benson Kipruto (Kenya) - 2:02:50

    • Korir made his decisive move between miles 20 and 21, near Heartbreak Hill, creating an insurmountable lead. He expressed surprise at breaking the record, stating his focus was on defending his title. Korir earned $150,000 for the win and a $50,000 bonus for the new course record.

    Lokedi Repeats as Women's Champion

    Sharon Lokedi continued her success at Boston, repeating as champion with a time of 2:18:51. This is the second-fastest time in event history, behind her own personal best from 2025.

    Women's Race Results

    • 1st: Sharon Lokedi - 2:18:51
    • 2nd: Loice Chemnung - 2:19:35
    • 3rd: Mary Ngugi-Cooper
    • 4th: Mercy Chelangat

      • Lokedi highlighted the strong connection between the runners and the enthusiastic crowd, noting their support was a significant boost. She also received $150,000 for her winning performance.

      American and Wheelchair Division Highlights

      Zouhair Talbi and Jess McClain set new American course records, finishing the men’s race in 2:03:45 and the women’s race in 2:20:49, respectively, placing fifth overall. They attributed the fast times to favorable wind conditions and a quick pace.

      In the wheelchair divisions, Marcel Hug (Switzerland) won his fourth consecutive Boston Marathon, achieving his ninth career victory, one shy of the record. Britain’s Eden Rainbow-Cooper reclaimed the women’s wheelchair title with a time of 1:30:51. Both wheelchair champions were awarded $50,000.

      The 2026 Boston Marathon showcased the continued pushing of boundaries in marathon running, driven by innovative training and competitive strategies.