Marileidy Paulino nominated for World Athletics Female Athlete of the Year

Dominican sprinter Marileidy Paulino has been named one of the 10 nominees for the World Athletics Female Athlete of the Year 2026 award. The recognition, selected by an international panel of experts, will be presented during the World Athletics Awards in Monaco on November 29.

Paulino’s nomination follows a highly successful season in which she secured the 400 meters title at the World Athletics Ultimate Championship in Budapest and reclaimed the Diamond League championship. She also achieved a time of 48.48 seconds, noted as a world and Diamond League record, and maintained an undefeated streak, running under 49 seconds in eight separate races. Additionally, she won gold in the 400 meters and the 4x400 meters relay at the Central American and Caribbean Games.

Paulino shares the female shortlist with athletes including Spain’s María Pérez, Ethiopia’s Tigst Assefa, and competitors from the United States, Kenya, Canada, Switzerland, and China.