How did Andreas Almgren make history with a New York City marathon debut win as Sheila Chepkirui claimed the Women’s title?

Sweden’s Andreas Almgren made an impressive start to his marathon career, winning the men’s race at the 2026 New York City Marathon. The European half-marathon champion finished in 2:06:01 after pulling away from Italy’s Yemaneberhan Crippa in the final mile. Kenya’s Sheila Chepkirui also returned to the top of the women’s podium, winning her second NYC Marathon title. American runner Jess McClain finished just six seconds behind her, securing a memorable second place.

The 50th edition of the race brought together nearly 60,000 runners across all five boroughs of New York City. The information is taken from ESPN and The Independent.

Who won the 2026 New York City Marathon?

Andreas Almgren won the men’s elite race in 2 hours, 6 minutes and 1 second. Crippa crossed the finish line 13 seconds later in 2:06:14, while Lesotho’s Kamohelo Mofolo took third in 2:06:26. The victory marked a major moment for Almgren, who was competing in his first marathon. The 31-year-old arrived in New York after breaking the European half-marathon record and winning the world title in Copenhagen in September.

He also enjoyed success on the track this year, taking continental gold in the 10,000 meters in Birmingham.

Defending champion Benson Kipruto narrowly missed the podium, finishing fourth in 2:06:27.

How did Sheila Chepkirui win the women's race?

The women's race was a close one between Chepkirui and her fellow Kenyan Hellen Obiri. Chepkirui (who won the race in 2024 as well) made her move on the gradual ascent up Fifth Avenue towards Central Park. Obiri stayed right with her, Chepkirui eventually pulled away in the final 150 to 200m. She finished in 2:24:36.

McClain produced a late charge to pass Obiri in the final strides. McClain finished second in 2:24:42, just one second ahead of Obiri.

It was the first time an American woman has reached the NY Marathon podium since Shalane Flanagan finished third in 2018.

Who won the wheelchair races?

Marcel Hug of Switzerland took his 8th men's title in 1:28:14, just one second ahead of Daniel Romanchuk of the USA. Catherine Debrunner won the women's wheelchair race in 1:40:02 to claim her second New York title.

2026 NYC Marathon prize money

Chepkirui took home $100k for winning the women's race. McClain had $85k total, $60k for second place and a $25k bonus as the top American finisher.