Jackline Jerono triumphed in the women’s Venicemarathon 2026

Jackline Jerono delivered a masterclass in tactical distance running to capture the women’s marathon title at the historic 40th-anniversary edition of the Wizz Air Venicemarathon. Held on Sunday, October 25, 2026, the World Athletics elite road race treated spectators to a captivating spectacle, unfolding against the backdrop of one of the world’s most unique cultural landscapes.

Maintaining her poise through the technical final stretch across Venice’s famous floating bridges, the Kenyan athlete crossed the finish line in a spectacular 2:26:16 hours. Jerono’s victory required an immense display of physical grit, as she narrowly fended off a relentless late-race challenge from Ethiopia’s Alemaz Samuel Mussa, who finished a mere seven seconds behind in a stellar 2:26:23 hours.

Completing the elite podium was another elite Ethiopian competitor, Worknesh Alemu, who registered a highly resilient third-place performance of 2:28:46 hours. The international depth of the 40th edition was further underscored by Almaz Negede, who claimed fourth place in 2:31:12 hours, and Kenya’s Domtyla Chepkemboi, who locked down the fifth position in 2:33:34 hours. Ethiopia’s Webalem Bazanew completed the top elite contingent in sixth overall with a time of 2:36:36 hours.

Meanwhile, local Italian fans along the route had plenty to celebrate as veteran distance specialist Federica Moroni put on an inspirational display of endurance, crossing the line in 2:49:39 hours to finish an impressive seventh overall and secure the honor of being the top performing domestic athlete of the day.

The elite women’s race got underway under ideal autumn running conditions, starting outside the grand gates of the historic Villa Pisani in Stra. From the sound of the starter’s pistol, the tactical intent of the East African contingent was clear. A tight, focused pack consisting of Jerono, Samuel, Alemu, and Negede quickly formed at the front, dictating an aggressive but calculated tempo.

As the course wound its way along the picturesque banks of the Riviera del Brenta, passing majestic Venetian villas, the leading group demonstrated exceptional synergy. Utilizing the designated pacemakers, the athletes maintained a rhythmic cadence, sharing leading duties and ensuring efficient fluid intake at the regular hydration stations to shield themselves from muscle fatigue later in the morning.

By the time the pack transitioned through the industrial and urban hubs of Marghera and Mestre, entering the green expanses of San Giuliano Park, the continuous structural pressure began to take its toll. The leading pack splintered, leaving Jerono and Samuel to pull away into an isolated duel for the championship, while Alemu broke clear of the remaining pursuers to solidify her hold on the third podium spot.

The final ten kilometers of the Venicemarathon are widely regarded as some of the most mentally and physically punishing in road racing. Leaving the mainland, the athletes ventured onto the long, completely exposed Ponte della Libertà, facing the elements across the open lagoon. Here, Jerono and Samuel locked into a matching stride, refusing to yield a single meter to one another.

Upon entering the historic core of Venice, the race transformed into a true test of physical balance and strength. The athletes were tasked with navigating 14 architectural bridges, climbing short, steep artificial ramps installed over the stone steps, all while maintaining their footing on old cobblestone surfaces.

Crossing the spectacular temporary floating bridge constructed across the Grand Canal, Samuel launched an aggressive surge, trying to exploit any lingering fatigue in her rival. However, Jerono showcased incredible uphill power and tactical patience. As they turned onto the home stretch along the Riva Sette Martiri, Jerono unleashed a final, devastating kick. Digging deep into her physical reserves, the Kenyan opened up a razor-thin seven-second cushion, crossing the timing mats in sheer jubilation.

While the international battle for the podium captivated global athletics enthusiasts, the loudest roars of the morning from the Venetian crowd were reserved for Federica Moroni. Running a remarkably disciplined, even-split race, the Italian favorite managed her energy levels perfectly across the punishing bridges. Her seventh-place overall finish under the competitive 2:50 mark served as a major highlight for the domestic running community, exemplifying the enduring passion and spirit of Italian distance running on the world stage.

Venicemarathon 2026 women’s final standings
1. Jackline Jerono (KEN)- 2:26:16 hours
2. Alemaz Samuel (ETH) – 2:26:23 hours
3. Worknesh Alemu (ETH) – 2:28:46 hours
4. Almaz Negede (ETH) – 2:31:12 hours
5. Domtyla Chepkemboi (KEN)- 2:33:34 hours
6. Webalem Bazaenw (ETH) – 2:36:36 hours
7. Federica Moroni (ITA)- 2:49:39 hours

Jackline Jerono’s dramatic triumph caps off a historic, record-shattering weekend for the Venicemarathon organization as it celebrated 40 years of competitive heritage. Attracting an extraordinary field of over 24,000 participants across its multiple distances, the event emphasized its status as a premier global festival of sport. The razor-thin margin in the women’s elite division ensures that the 2026 race will long be remembered as one of the most thrilling and technically superb battles in the modern history of Italian road racing.