World 10K Bengaluru: Elite Runners Gear Up for Thrilling Competition

Excitement Builds for the 18th World 10K Bengaluru

Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], March 16: The vibrant city of Bengaluru is preparing to welcome some of the globe's top runners for the 18th edition of the World 10K Bengaluru, set to take place on Sunday, April 26.

This prestigious World Athletics Gold Label Race features an impressive prize pool of USD 210,000, with the winners in both the men's and women's divisions each receiving USD 26,000, alongside additional bonuses for breaking course records.

Leading the men's competition is 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, clinching victory in Castellon, Spain, with a world-leading time of 26:39, marking it as the sixth-fastest in the event's history.

Among the five competitors this year with sub-27-minute times, there are also 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'm in excellent form," Kibet shared.

Kibet will encounter tough competition from Ethiopian Khairi Bejiga (26:51) and two platinum-level runners, Rodrigue Kwizera from Burundi and another Ethiopian, Gemechu Dida.

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 well-acquainted with the Bengaluru course, having finished second in 2022.

Also competing is Muktar Edris, a two-time world 5000m champion.

In the women's category, defending champion Sarah Chelangat aims for back-to-back victories. If successful, she will join the ranks of Agnes Tirop, who achieved consecutive titles in 2018 and 2019. Chelangat previously 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 triumph once again in this beautiful city," Chelangat expressed.

The early entries for the elite women's race indicate a strong Kenyan presence, as they have claimed 10 of the 15 women's titles awarded in Bengaluru to date.

Leading the entries is Brenda Jepchirchir, the fastest runner in 2026, with a winning time of 29:25 from the Valencia 10K. However, 2024 Bengaluru champion Lilian Rengeruk Kasait is also returning, posing a significant challenge for the top position.

Another notable Kenyan entrant is Beatrice Chepkoech, the world steeplechase record-holder, who previously won the Gold label Port Gentil 10K in Gabon three years ago.

Cintia Chepngeno, who secured silver in both the Bengaluru and Shanghai 10K last year, will further intensify the competition in the women's race, promising an unforgettable event.