Lisbon is preparing to host one of Europe’s most competitive road racing events as elite athletes from across the continent and beyond gather for the Lisbon Half Marathon on Sunday. Known for its fast course and historic performances, the race is expected to deliver another high level competition with several national records potentially under threat.
French distance runners will be among the most closely watched participants. Three of the country’s top athletes are set to compete, including Etienne Daguinos, Valentin Gondouin and Hassan Chahdi. Each arrives in Lisbon with impressive personal best performances and strong recent form. Daguinos has recorded a time of 59 minutes and 46 seconds over the half marathon distance, placing him among the fastest runners in French history. Gondouin follows closely with a personal best of 1 hour and 17 seconds, while Chahdi has demonstrated consistent endurance with a best time of 1 hour, 1 minute and 5 seconds.
The trio will likely aim to challenge the current French national record of 59 minutes and 37 seconds, which was set only recently in Barcelona. The Lisbon course has gained a reputation for enabling fast times due to its layout and supportive race conditions, making it a realistic target for athletes seeking personal and national records.
Portugal will also have strong representation in the men’s race. Samuel Barata, who holds the Portuguese national record in the 10 kilometre distance, will lead the home challenge. Competing in front of local supporters often provides an extra layer of motivation and Barata will be hoping to deliver a standout performance on one of the country’s most recognizable racing stages.
International competition will be equally intense. Uganda’s Jacob Kiplimo returns to Lisbon with a remarkable history on this course. In 2021 he produced one of the most memorable performances in road running when he completed the race in 57 minutes and 31 seconds, breaking the world record at the time. Although that global mark has since been surpassed, the time still stands as the Lisbon course record and highlights the potential for extraordinary performances on this route.
Spain’s Said Mechaal is also expected to play a prominent role in the race after recently setting a new Spanish national record in the 10 kilometre event earlier this year in Valencia. Norway’s Awet Kibrab adds further depth to the European field. Kibrab gained international recognition after running one of the fastest marathon debuts ever recorded a European athlete with a time of 2 hours and 4 minutes.
The women’s competition also promises a strong contest. France’s Mekdes Woldu arrives with a personal best of 1 hour, 8 minutes and 36 seconds and sits within range of the French national record currently held Alessia Zarbo. Woldu has steadily improved over recent seasons and Lisbon provides an opportunity for her to push toward a historic result.
Defending champion Tsigie Gebreselama of Ethiopia returns after an outstanding performance last year when she crossed the finish line in 1 hour, 4 minutes and 21 seconds. That run not only secured victory but also established a new course record, placing her among the fastest half marathon runners in the world.
