Editor’s comments: I met Yeman Crippa at the 2019 Milano Marathon. During our chat, Yeman told me he was observing the race, considering whether to race the marathon distance. Yeman has, and his exciting win came down to his leg speed, with a huge PB. The following is a release from his sponsor, On Running.
The marathon distance is challenging for track athletes. The patience to keep yourself in control and to manage the speed and energy is key. Yeman said that after Paris, he is finally a marathoner!
Paris, France, April 13, 2026 – On Athlete Yeman Crippa secured a dominant victory at the marathon in Paris, crossing the finish line in a blistering personal best of 2:05.18, becoming the first-ever Italian man to win the prestigious event and the first European man in 24 years to win the race.
The 28 year old Eitrian born Italian delivered a masterclass in tactical running. After a dense lead pack remained grouped through the 35th kilometer, Crippa made his decisive move within the final stretch. Utilizing his signature trackspeed, he broke away from the field to finish ahead of Ethiopia’s Bayelign Teshager (2:05:24) and Kenya’s Sila Kiptoo (2:05:29).
Speaking after the race, Crippa said, “My career as a marathon runner begins today,” he said. “I have finally found the right path. Today I redeemed myself for my 25th-place finish at the Paris Olympics, and a completely new page opens. This morning, I discovered I have a real feeling for the marathon.”
From the Track to the Marathon
Sunday’s triumph along the Seine was Crippa’s seventh career marathon, representing the culmination of a brilliant transition from the stadium to the road. Before conquering the 42.2km distance, the On athlete systematically dismantled the Italian record books, breaking historic marks that had stood since the 1980s and 90s. He remains the national record holder across an unprecedented range of distances—including the 3,000m, 5,000m, and 10,000m on the track, as well as the 5km, 10km, and a 59:01 half-marathon on the road. A champion of the highest order, Crippa’s resume is anchored by his 2022 European 10,000m title and his 2024 European Half Marathon gold in Rome. While his marathon debut in Milan three years ago was a vital learning experience, this victory proves he has successfully refined his elite engine to compete at the very front of the world’s most competitive road races.
