Star-Studded Elite Lineup Announced for 21st Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon

Exciting Announcement for the Upcoming Half Marathon

Procam International, the organizers behind the Delhi Half Marathon, revealed an impressive international elite roster for the 21st edition of this prestigious World Athletics Gold Label Road Race. The event is set to take place in New Delhi on Sunday, October 18, 2026. Ethiopia's Birhanu Legese, boasting a personal best of 58:59, will lead the men's elite field, while Kenya's Irine Cheptai, with a personal best of 64:53, will spearhead the women's competition, according to a recent press release.

Prize Money and Incentives

This year's marathon will feature a total prize pool of USD 275,732, with each category winner receiving USD 27,000. Prize money will extend to the top ten finishers in both men's and women's categories, along with additional rewards for the top Indian finishers. An event-record bonus of USD 12,000 will also be awarded to any elite athlete who surpasses the previous record in their category.

Competitive Men's Field

Birhanu Legese will face stiff competition from seven other men who have achieved sub-60-minute personal bests, promising one of the most competitive men's races in the event's history. Among the contenders is Kenya's Charles Matata, the 2023 Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon runner-up, who also secured second place at the Istanbul Half Marathon earlier this year. Additionally, Ethiopian runners Deriba Tesfaye and Melaku Belachew will enhance the competition, with Deriba finishing second at the Rotterdam Marathon and Melaku winning the Hong Kong Marathon 2026.

Legese's Determination

On his way to Delhi, Birhanu Legese expressed his eagerness to improve upon his previous performance, stating, "I narrowly missed the podium last year and am determined to make it right this time. Running in the Indian capital is always a pleasure, and I am focused on getting into great shape before race day."

Challenges Ahead for Irine Cheptai

In the women's category, 2022 winner Irine Cheptai from Kenya, a Platinum Level athlete with a personal best of 64:53, faces a tough challenge this year. The women's field will also include last year's silver medalist, Ethiopia's Melal Siyoum Biratu, and Kenya's Cynthia Limo, the 2024 runner-up. Another athlete to watch is Lonah Chemtai Salpeter, who competes under the Israeli flag and has previously won a bronze medal at the 2022 World Athletics Half Marathon Championships.

Irine's Confidence

Reflecting on her chances, Irine stated, "I know there are many young runners competing at the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon. However, my experience in Delhi gives me confidence in my ability to challenge for the podium and aim for my second title here." Cheptai arrives in Delhi in excellent form, having won the Burj2Burj Half Marathon in Dubai in February and finishing sixth at the Boston Marathon, solidifying her status as a strong contender.

Procam International's Vision

Vivek Singh, Joint Managing Director of Procam International, remarked, "As we enter the third decade of the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon, we have seen remarkable milestones, including record participation and elite athletes making their mark on the Delhi course. Each edition has raised the bar, and this year will be no exception." He further emphasized that the elite field for the 21st edition reflects the event's significance on the global running calendar, with expectations for athletes to push their limits and inspire the global running community.

Top Athletes Competing

This year's Half Marathon will showcase 36 of the world's top athletes, with an equal split of 18 men and 18 women competing for the titles.