Running News Daily

Ruben Querinjean has added another remarkable chapter to his breakthrough 2026 season, setting a new Luxembourg national record over the road mile at the LËTZ MILE – Luxembourg City Road Mile.

Querinjean stopped the clock at an impressive 4:03.03, producing another standout performance only a few weeks after setting a national record in the 3,000m steeplechase.

The Luxembourg star has been enjoying an outstanding season, establishing himself as one of the country's leading distance runners while continuing to push the national record books into new territory.

His latest achievement also highlights his versatility. Best known for his performances over the steeplechase barriers, Querinjean has shown that his speed and endurance translate exceptionally well to the roads, with the mile requiring a combination of strength, pace and finishing speed.

The 4:03.03 performance gives Querinjean another national mark to celebrate during a season that has already delivered several major milestones. His continued progression has made him an increasingly prominent figure on the European distance-running scene.

For Luxembourg athletics, performances like this represent an exciting period for the sport. Querinjean's ability to challenge national records across different disciplines is a strong indication of the depth of his talent and the level he is reaching.

With another national record now secured, Querinjean can look ahead with even greater confidence as he continues his impressive 2026 campaign.

Another record. Another milestone. Another unforgettable chapter in Ruben Querinjean's remarkable season.

Thierry Ndikumwenayo delivered one of the standout performances of the cross-country season, outkicking France’s world 10,000 m champion Jimmy Gressier to win the senior men’s title at the 31st SPAR European Cross Country Championships in Lagoa, Portugal.

In a race defined by tactics and grit, the Spaniard stopped the clock at 22:05 over the demanding 7.47 km course, finishing just three seconds ahead of Gressier after a dramatic sprint to the line.

From the opening meters, the course—featuring rolling terrain, sandy stretches, and sharp turns—began to thin the field. By the midpoint, Ndikumwenayo and Gressier had broken clear, forming a two-man lead group that quickly established control. The pair matched each other stride for stride, trading subtle surges while keeping the chasers at bay.

Gressier, 28, arrived in Lagoa riding the momentum of a remarkable 2025 season that included a world title over 10,000 m in Tokyo, European half-marathon gold, and European indoor records at 5,000 m. A European cross-country crown would have capped a year that showcased his range across track, road, and grass.

Ndikumwenayo had other plans. Born in Burundi in 1997 and now racing for Spain, he has steadily evolved into one of Europe’s most complete distance runners. After taking bronze at last year’s championships in Antalya, he arrived in Portugal sharper, stronger, and ready to challenge for gold.

The decisive moment came on the final bend. Gressier, preparing to unleash his trademark finishing kick, briefly lost his footing—just enough hesitation for Ndikumwenayo to strike. The Spaniard surged decisively and held on through the line, sealing a memorable victory in one of the closest finishes of the championships.

Behind the front two, Switzerland’s Dominic Lokinyomo Lobalu claimed bronze in 22:23 after a hard-fought battle, edging Great Britain’s Scott Beattie, who finished fourth in the same time. Ireland’s Jack O’Leary took fifth in 22:25, playing a key role in Ireland securing its first senior men’s team medal at these championships in 25 years.

Spain’s dominance was underlined by strong supporting runs from Abdessamad Oukhelfen (6th) and Aarón Las Heras (9th), giving the nation a comfortable team title and confirming its depth in European cross-country.

Top 10 – Senior Men’s Cross Country

1. Thierry Ndikumwenayo (ESP) — 22:05

2. Jimmy Gressier (FRA) — 22:08

3. Dominic Lokinyomo Lobalu (SUI) — 22:23

4. Scott Beattie (GBR) — 22:23

5. Jack O’Leary (IRL) — 22:25

6. Abdessamad Oukhelfen (ESP) — 22:27

7. Ruben Querinjean (LUX) — 22:28

8. Simon Sundström (SWE) — 22:29

9. Aarón Las Heras (ESP) — 22:30

10. Brian Fay (IRL) — 22:31

Ndikumwenayo’s victory in Lagoa was about more than a narrow margin. It marked the arrival of a runner fully in command of his craft—strong, patient, and fearless when it mattered most. On a course that rewarded toughness and timing, he delivered both, producing one of the defining moments of the 2025 European cross-country season.