Sabastian Sawe Pulls Out of Berlin Marathon Race
Defending champion and world record holder Sabastian Sawe has withdrawn from the 2026 BMW Berlin Marathon because of an undisclosed injury.
The 31-year-old athletics star from the country made the announcement on August 27, 2026, via social media. Event organisers SCC EVENTS have not released any further medical details or confirmed the seriousness of the problem.
Sawe expressed clear disappointment at having to step aside. He said he was leaving the race “with a heavy heart” after looking forward to “achieving something special on the streets of Berlin and crossing the finish line at the Brandenburg Gate.” The decision ends his chance to defend the title he captured last year.
In 2025 he won the Berlin Marathon in a time of 2:02:16. Earlier in 2026 he made history by becoming the first athlete to break the two-hour barrier, recording 1:59:30 at the London Marathon in April. Those performances had made him the clear favourite for another strong showing in the German capital.
The race itself remains scheduled for Sunday, September 27, 2026. Attention now shifts to the rest of the elite field, particularly on the women’s side. Two-time winner and current women’s world record holder Tigst Assefa will lead a competitive group of top runners aiming for strong results on the famous course.
Sawe’s absence removes one of the most anticipated storylines from the event. Fans and fellow competitors will watch to see how the injury progresses and when the celebrated athlete from the country can return to racing. Meanwhile the Berlin Marathon continues its tradition of attracting world-class talent and delivering memorable performances.
