The first five men at the 2026 New York City Marathon represented five countries, while seven nations appeared in the top ten. VnExpress uses that spread in a November 4 analysis of broader international competition in distance running.
Its discussion connects the November 1 results with athletes' development pathways, while noting Kenya's continued strength in the women's race.
Track experience transfers to the roads
Sweden's Andreas Almgren won in 2:06:01 on his marathon debut. The report lists his 2026 world half-marathon and European 10,000-metre titles as part of the background to that performance.
Italy's Yemaneberhan Crippa finished second in 2:06:14. He also developed on the track, winning the European 10,000 metres in 2022 before the continental half-marathon title in 2024.
VnExpress interprets these examples as evidence that runners can prepare for the marathon while retaining high-level speed from shorter distances, rather than treating it only as a late-career destination.
Wider representation, different backgrounds
Lesotho's Kamohelo Mofolo, 21, finished third in 2:06:26. Compatriot Tebello Ramakongoana also placed third in Sydney earlier in the year.
In the women's race, American Jessica McClain was second in 2:24:42, six seconds behind Sheila Chepkirui. Kenya still had five athletes in the women's top ten.
The article distinguishes competitive nationality from birthplace and development background: Crippa was born in Ethiopia, and some US representatives have North or East African origins. Following how different national training systems develop is the next perspective suggested by this broader field.