Olympic Champion Hassan Pulls Out of London Marathon

Olympic champion Sifan Hassan has pulled out of next month’s London Marathon due to an Achilles injury, organisers confirmed on Monday.

Hassan, who won marathon gold at the 2024 Paris Olympics, sustained the injury during treadmill training.

The Ethiopia-born athlete, also a multiple Olympic gold medallist on the track, said the decision to withdraw was difficult, adding that elite competition requires full fitness.

She noted that she initially hoped the injury would improve, but her condition worsened during training, preventing her from preparing at the standard she demands of herself.

“To compete at that level, you need to be in perfect condition,” said the 33-year-old.

“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.”

Hassan won the London Marathon in 2023, and the 2026 edition is scheduled for April 26.