Brigid Kosgei breaks Tokyo Marathon course record in commanding win

Kenya’s Brigid Kosgei has stormed to victory at the Tokyo Marathon, setting a new course record of two hours, 14 minutes and 29 seconds.

The 32-year-old finished more than two minutes clear of the field to secure a dominant triumph on the streets of the Japanese capital.

Ethiopia’s Bertukan Welde took second place in 2:16:36, with compatriot Hawi Feysa rounding out the podium.

Kosgei’s blistering pace sliced significantly off the previous mark of 2:15:55, established by two-time winner Sutume Asefa Kebede in 2024.

Olympic ambitions and nationality switch

The former world record holder is no stranger to success in the city, having claimed silver for Kenya at the delayed 2020 Olympic Games.

However, Kosgei has revealed she is now planning to switch allegiance and represent Turkey at the Los Angeles Games in 2028.

“We have a lot of athletes in Kenya,” said Kosgei.

“I want some young generation to follow my step to join me in Turkey.”

Takele defends men’s title in photo finish

In the men’s event, Ethiopia’s Tadese Takele successfully retained his crown following a dramatic sprint finish.

The 23-year-old clocked 2:03:37 to edge out Kenya’s Geoffrey Toroitich, with both athletes credited with the exact same official time.

Alexander Mutiso Munyao was just one second adrift in third, completing an intensely competitive podium.

“I knew that the final stage would be decisive,” said Takele.

“Around 41km I wanted to wait and see what would happen and then I made my move right before the finish.”