David Weir, the world record holder in wheelchair marathon running, is gearing up to deny Swiss athlete Marcel Hug a record-equalling eighth London Marathon victory. The 46-year-old Weir, who has dominated the London Marathon for years, faces a tough challenge from his long-time rival Hug this year.
For Weir, winning eight consecutive London Marathons over a span of 16 years is an impressive achievement. He recently finished sixth at last year's event, which was just a few months after Hug won the title in New York City.
Hug, on the other hand, is a formidable opponent who has been consistent in his performances. The Swiss athlete has been training hard to defend his course record and regain the top spot in London.
Weir described Hug as an "incredible athlete" operating at the peak of his powers, adding that he will do everything possible to prevent Hug from matching his eight-victory record. However, Weir also acknowledged that Hug is arguably the most dominant athlete in their sport anywhere in the world right now and will be remembered as one of the all-time greats.
The London Marathon has been a significant platform for wheelchair athletes in recent years, with the event awarding equal prize money to wheelchair and non-disabled elite athletes. Weir's eight victories are set to go down in history as an incredible achievement by a British athlete.
Hug's rivalries with Weir have been well-documented over the years, and their head-to-head battles have often provided thrilling performances for spectators. Their upcoming showdown at the 2026 London Marathon promises to be just as exciting, with both athletes determined to come out on top.
The competition in the women's wheelchair event is equally fierce, with Eden Rainbow-Cooper looking to build on her Boston Marathon win and Catherine Debrunner aiming to make it two titles in a row.
For Weir, winning eight consecutive London Marathons over a span of 16 years is an impressive achievement. He recently finished sixth at last year's event, which was just a few months after Hug won the title in New York City.
Hug, on the other hand, is a formidable opponent who has been consistent in his performances. The Swiss athlete has been training hard to defend his course record and regain the top spot in London.
Weir described Hug as an "incredible athlete" operating at the peak of his powers, adding that he will do everything possible to prevent Hug from matching his eight-victory record. However, Weir also acknowledged that Hug is arguably the most dominant athlete in their sport anywhere in the world right now and will be remembered as one of the all-time greats.
The London Marathon has been a significant platform for wheelchair athletes in recent years, with the event awarding equal prize money to wheelchair and non-disabled elite athletes. Weir's eight victories are set to go down in history as an incredible achievement by a British athlete.
Hug's rivalries with Weir have been well-documented over the years, and their head-to-head battles have often provided thrilling performances for spectators. Their upcoming showdown at the 2026 London Marathon promises to be just as exciting, with both athletes determined to come out on top.
The competition in the women's wheelchair event is equally fierce, with Eden Rainbow-Cooper looking to build on her Boston Marathon win and Catherine Debrunner aiming to make it two titles in a row.