Chicago Marathon 2026: Kiplimo, Feysa and Kenyan Runners to Watch
Updated 9 October 2026: The 48th Bank of America Chicago Marathon is scheduled for Sunday, 11 October. The professional start list includes defending champions Jacob Kiplimo and Hawi Feysa, alongside a deep international field. This preview uses the organizer’s professional field, updated 5 October.
Who is in the professional field?
Uganda’s Jacob Kiplimo returns to the men’s race after winning in Chicago in 2025. His listed personal best is 2:00:28, set in London in 2026. Kenya’s Amos Kipruto, with a listed best of 2:01:39, is among the leading challengers. The published men’s field also includes Daniel Mateiko, Daniel Mesfun, and other Kenyan runners.
Ethiopia’s Hawi Feysa returns as women’s defending champion. Kenya’s Brigid Kosgei, Brillian Kipkoech, Sharon Lokedi, Loice Chemnung, Joan Kilimo and Magdalyne Masai are also listed. Switzerland’s Marcel Hug is among the men’s wheelchair entries. Athlete lists can change; check the official professional field, updated 5 October for withdrawals and current entries.
Chicago Marathon start times in Kenya
The organizer’s schedule lists the professional wheelchair starts at 7:20 a.m. Chicago time and the professional men’s and women’s start at 7:30 a.m. Chicago time. On 11 October, that is 3:20 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. East Africa Time, respectively. Wave 1 is scheduled for 3:35 p.m. EAT. The schedule is subject to change; consult the official race-day timetable for updates.
How to follow the race
Use the organizer’s press releases and official event site for race-day coverage and results. A start list identifies athletes entered to compete; it does not guarantee that each runner will start or predict the outcome.
