Amanal Petros of Germany and Alisa Vainio of Finland set new championship records as they won the men's and women's marathons on the final day of the 2026 European Athletics Championships in Birmingham.
Key facts
- Germany's Amanal Petros won the men's marathon gold with a new championship record.
- Finland's Alisa Vainio won the women's marathon gold with a new championship record.
- Both records were set on the final day of the 2026 European Athletics Championships.
- The championships were held in Birmingham.
Two new championship records were set on the final day of the 2026 European Athletics Championships in Birmingham, as the men’s and women’s marathons produced standout performances, according to the BBC.
Germany’s Amanal Petros claimed gold in the men’s marathon, crossing the line to set a new championship record for the event.
In the women’s race, Finland’s Alisa Vainio also took gold while setting a new championship record of her own.
Both victories came on the concluding day of the championships, capping the event in Birmingham with record-breaking marathon results.
The BBC reported that both athletes set their respective championship records on their way to gold, marking a notable finale to the 2026 competition.
Why it matters
Championship records signal the rising standard of European distance running and highlight the top talent competing on the continental stage. For fans, the dual record-breaking finale added a memorable end to the 2026 championships in Birmingham.
Frequently asked questions
Who won the men's marathon at the 2026 European Athletics Championships?
Germany's Amanal Petros won the men's marathon gold and set a new championship record, according to the BBC.
Who won the women's marathon?
Finland's Alisa Vainio won the women's marathon gold, also setting a new championship record.
Where were the 2026 European Athletics Championships held?
The championships were held in Birmingham, with the marathons taking place on the final day.