Two-time champion Birhanu Legese will spearhead the men’s elite field at the 21st Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon (October 18, 2026) when it returns to the national capital. The Ethiopian distance runner (personal best of 58:59) is the fastest among those announced for this year’s race.
Organisers Procam International announced the international elite line-up on Tuesday with some of the world’s best distance runners competing for the World Athletics Gold Label Road Race. A total prize purse of USD 275,732 will be up for grabs and the winners of the men’s and women’s races each receive USD 27,000.
Legese’s return is the big story of the race. The Ethiopian has already won Delhi twice so will be keen to add another title to his tally. He knows the course well and has sub 60 minute times so he’s one of the favourites but the depth of the field makes it tough going.
Seven men will run the men’s race which speaks volumes about the quality of the competition. Kenya’s Charles Matata, runner-up in the Delhi Half Marathon 2023 is one of those expected to challenge Legese and Ethiopia’s Deriba Tesfaye and Melaku Belachew will add depth to the field — both runners are coming off marathon wins.
In the women’s race Irine Cheptai from Kenya will lead the elite field. The 2022 Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon winner will be challenged by Ethiopia’s Melal Siyoum Biratu (2nd last year) and Kenya’s Cynthia Limo (2024 runner-up).
Organisers have also announced incentives above the main prize money. Prize money will be paid up to 10th place in both elite categories and separate incentives for top Indian finishers will be on offer as well. An event record bonus of USD 12,000 will also be on offer for athletes who break the existing mark in their category.
With an accomplished champion back, a strong men’s field and women’s competition too, the 21st edition is shaping up to be one of the most eagerly awaited races on Delhi’s sporting calendar. Legese’s quest for a third crown will be one of the main stories to watch as the elite athletes get ready to battle it out for victory on October 18.
