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Sabastian Sawe withdraws from Berlin Marathon due to injury
Kenyan marathon world record holder Sabastian Sawe has withdrawn from the BMW Berlin Marathon scheduled for September 27 due to an undisclosed injury. The 31-year-old, who became the first person to run an official marathon in under two hours with a time of 1:59:30 in London this April, was expected to defend his title in Berlin.
Sawe expressed his disappointment on social media, stating, “It is with a heavy heart that I must inform you that I am forced to withdraw from the Berlin Marathon due to injury.” He noted his desire to achieve something special on the streets of Berlin and cross the finish line at the Brandenburg Gate.
Race director Mark Milde confirmed the withdrawal, expressing regret that Sawe would not be able to compete this year but wishing him a speedy recovery. While Sawe’s absence changes the landscape of the men’s race, organizers noted that the women’s competition remains highly anticipated, with Tigst Assefa expected to challenge the world record.
Entities
BMW Berlin Marathon · Berlin · Berlin Marathon · London Marathon · Mark Milde · Sabastian Sawe · Tigst Assefa
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The specific type of injury or Sawe's current fitness status has not been made public. www.nytimes.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] The Berlin Marathon is scheduled for September 27. www.bild.de · www.independent.co.uk
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Race director Mark Milde expressed regret over Sawe's inability to compete. www.nytimes.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] Sawe won the Berlin Marathon last year with a time of 2:02:16. www.bild.de · www.nytimes.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] Sabastian Sawe is withdrawing from the Berlin Marathon due to an injury. www.bild.de · www.nytimes.com · www.independent.co.uk
- [● 3 SOURCES] Sawe set a marathon world record of 1:59:30 in London in April 2026. www.bild.de · www.nytimes.com · www.independent.co.uk