John Korir of Kenya won the Boston Marathon on April 20, 2026, setting a new course record with a time of 2:01:52.
As of midday, this time is 70 seconds faster than the previous record held by Geoffrey Mutai since 2011. Korir’s victory marks his second consecutive win, making him one of the few to defend his title.
Sharon Lokedi, also from Kenya, triumphed in the women’s division with a preliminary time of 2:18:51. This performance is notable as it is the second-fastest winning time in the history of the women’s division.
Marcel Hug won the men’s wheelchair division for a ninth time, finishing in 1:16:06. Meanwhile, Eden Rainbow-Cooper claimed victory in the women’s wheelchair division with a time of 1:30:51.
Both Korir and Lokedi’s victories are significant. They are the first to defend their titles since 1996. Their performances reflect an exceptionally competitive race this year.
Thirteen men finished under 2:06, while ten women completed their races inside 2:23. This indicates one of the deepest fields in Boston Marathon history.
Loice Chemnung finished second in the women’s division, just 44 seconds behind Lokedi. In the men’s division, Alphonce Simbu and Benson Kipruto took second and third places respectively, with times of 2:02:47 and 2:02:50.
John Korir stated, “I knew I would defend my title, but I didn’t know I would run that fast.” Sharon Lokedi echoed similar sentiments about her performance—”I just had to be patient.” Details remain unconfirmed regarding final official times and placements as post-race evaluations continue.
