Running News Daily

Kenya’s Filex Kibet delivered a sensational performance at the 2026 Wizz Air Rome Half Marathon by Brooks, storming to victory in a remarkable 59:22 to establish a new men’s course record and headline an impressive display of distance running in the Italian capital.

The Kenyan produced a commanding performance over the 21.0975km distance, combining speed, endurance and tactical discipline to secure the prestigious title. His record-breaking achievement was the defining moment of an exciting competition that brought together some of the finest road-running talents from East Africa.

Kibet's winning time not only secured him a place in the event's history but also demonstrated his ability to compete at an exceptional level on the international road-running circuit. Breaking the one-hour barrier in a half marathon remains a significant benchmark in elite distance running, and his performance underlined the quality of the men's field.

Ethiopia's Selemon Atakiti Kidanu emerged as one of the standout performers of the day, producing an outstanding half-marathon debut to finish second in 59:38. Despite competing over the distance for the first time, the Ethiopian displayed remarkable composure and endurance, crossing the finish line just 16 seconds behind the eventual champion.

Kenya's Elisha Kiprop completed the men's podium after clocking 1:00:13, ensuring that two Kenyan athletes finished among the top three. His performance added further strength to Kenya's presence in a highly competitive race that saw the leading contenders produce impressive times on the streets of Rome.

While Kibet dominated the headlines in the men's competition, Ethiopia's Netsanet Desta delivered an equally impressive performance in the women's race, claiming victory in 1:07:26 to complete a memorable day of elite road racing.

Desta demonstrated exceptional consistency throughout the demanding half-marathon distance, maintaining the pace necessary to overcome a competitive field and secure the women's title. Her victory highlighted Ethiopia's continued strength in international distance running.

Kenya's Regina Wambui Ndungu mounted a strong challenge but ultimately settled for second place in 1:07:48, finishing 22 seconds behind the Ethiopian champion. Ndungu's performance ensured Kenya was represented on both the men's and women's podiums.

Ethiopia's Yalemget Yaregal rounded out the women's top three, crossing the finish line in 1:08:22 to complete an impressive Ethiopian showing in the women's competition.

The contrasting victories of Kibet and Desta provided the perfect storyline for an event that continues to attract accomplished distance runners to one of Europe's most historic cities. With athletes competing against the clock and one another, the race delivered both a new course record and an impressive collection of performances.

For Kibet, the achievement represents another significant milestone, with his name now attached to the men's course record. His 59:22 performance establishes a new standard for future competitors seeking success at the Rome Half Marathon.

Kidanu's impressive debut also offered a glimpse of his potential over the distance, while the strong performances of Kiprop, Ndungu and Yaregal further demonstrated the depth of talent competing at the event.

The 2026 edition will be remembered particularly for Kibet's record-breaking triumph, as the Kenyan's exceptional run added a new chapter to the race's history and reinforced Rome's growing reputation as a destination for elite international road racing.

With the men's course record rewritten and two deserving champions crowned, the Italian capital once again provided a memorable stage for some of the world's most accomplished distance-running talents.