Andreas Almgren Wins New York City Marathon in Stunning Debut
Swedish runner Andreas Almgren won the New York City Marathon in 2:06:01 during his debut at the distance. The 31-year-old triumphed on a demanding course, becoming the first European-born man to win the event since 1996.
Andreas Almgren wrote a remarkable chapter in modern athletics history by winning the New York City Marathon in his debut over the 42.195-kilometer distance. Clocking 2:06:01, the 31-year-old Swede triumphed against an elite field on one of the world's most demanding courses, leaving Italy's Yemaneberhan Crippa in second place with 2:06:14 and defending champion Benson Kipruto in fourth.
Almgren's journey to the top of long-distance running is unconventional. A former youth football defender for AIK in Stockholm, he transitioned to athletics due to persistent injuries. Initially a middle-distance runner, he claimed bronze in the 800 meters at the 2014 World Junior Championships. However, recurring stress fractures and physical setbacks repeatedly halted his momentum, forcing him to miss three consecutive Olympic Games, including the Paris 2024 Olympics.
Alongside his athletic endeavors, Almgren pursued rigorous academic and professional paths, studying industrial engineering and working as a data scientist for the Swedish technology firm Svexa. His analytical mindset heavily influences his training approach. He maintains a detailed Excel spreadsheet tracking workouts, heart rates, and lactate levels since 2012, designing his own training schedules while consulting with veteran coach Urban Aron.
Following his Olympic disappointment in 2024, Almgren dedicated himself fully to running. The decision yielded historic results in 2025, including a European record in the 5,000 meters and a half-marathon victory in Copenhagen with a time of 58:06. Choosing New York for his marathon debut proved tactical, as the hilly and demanding course suited his track speed and tactical strengths.
Executing a near-flawless race, Almgren surged ahead in Central Park during the final miles, securing a historic victory that made him the first Swedish runner to win a World Marathon Major and the first European-born man to conquer New York since 1996. Looking ahead, Almgren has already set his sights on the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, where he contemplates competing in both the 10,000 meters and the marathon.
