World 10K Bengaluru: Elite Runners Gear Up for Thrilling Competition
World 10K Bengaluru Set for April 26
Bengaluru is preparing to welcome some of the globe's top runners for the 18th edition of the World 10K Bengaluru, taking place on Sunday, April 26. This prestigious World Athletics Gold Label Race features a total prize pool of USD 210,000, with the winners in both men's and women's categories receiving USD 26,000 each, alongside additional bonuses for breaking course records.
Kibet Leads the Men's Elite Lineup
The men's race will be headlined by Ugandan athlete Harbert Kibet. At just 20 years old, Kibet, who was a finalist at the World Junior Athletics Championships two years ago, made a remarkable debut in the 10K earlier this year, winning in Castellon, Spain, with a world-leading time of 26:39, marking the sixth-fastest time ever recorded for this distance.
Kibet is among five competitors this year who have achieved sub-27-minute times, with a total of 11 athletes boasting personal bests that surpass the Bengaluru course record of 27:38.
"This is my first visit to India, and I aim to make the most of my experience at the TCS World 10K Bengaluru, especially since I am in excellent form," Kibet shared.
Challengers for Kibet
Kibet will face tough competition from Ethiopian Khairi Bejiga, who has a personal best of 26:51, as well as two platinum-level runners: Rodrigue Kwizera from Burundi and Gemechu Dida from Ethiopia. Kwizera earned a silver medal in Bengaluru two years ago, while Dida recently secured a notable second place at the RAK half-marathon in early 2026. Additionally, Tadese Worku, another sub-27-minute runner, is familiar with the Bengaluru course, having finished second in 2022.
The lineup also includes two-time world 5000m champion Muktar Edris.
Chelangat Aims for Consecutive Titles
Defending champion Sarah Chelangat is back to reclaim her title. If successful, she will become only the second athlete to win consecutive titles, a feat previously accomplished by Agnes Tirop in 2018 and 2019. Chelangat won the race in 2025 with a time of 31:07.
"The TCS World 10K Bengaluru holds a special place in my heart, and I hope to win again in this beautiful city," Chelangat expressed.
Strong Kenyan Representation in Women's Race
The women's elite field features a significant Kenyan presence, with Kenyans having claimed 10 of the 15 women's titles awarded in Bengaluru to date.
Leading the entries is Brenda Jepchirchir, who recorded the fastest time in 2026 with a Valencia 10K victory of 29:25.
Returning champion Lilian Rengeruk Kasait poses a serious challenge to her competitors, while Beatrice Chepkoech, the world steeplechase record-holder, adds to the excitement after winning the Gold label Port Gentil 10K in Gabon three years ago. Cintia Chepngeno, who earned silver in both the Bengaluru and Shanghai 10K last year, will also be a formidable contender.