On Strengthens OAC Europe Roster with German Steeplechase Champion Karl Bebendorf
The European bronze medalist and two-time Olympian joins the Swiss sportswear brand’s elite training group
Zurich, Switzerland, February 7, 2026 - On, the Swiss sportswear brand, is pleased to announce the signing of German middle-distance powerhouse Karl Bebendorf, who joins the brand’s global athlete roster as the newest member of the On Athletics Club (OAC) Europe. The partnership sees Bebendorf fully integrate into On’s professional ecosystem, continuing his journey under the guidance of OAC Europe Head Coach Thomas Dreissigacker
Having already achieved a new German record in the 2000m steeplechase under Dreissigacker’s guidance in 2025, Bebendorf’s transition to an official OAC Europe member is the natural next step in their successful partnership
Bebendorf, a specialist in the 3000m steeplechase, has solidified his status as one of the continent's most formidable competitors. His standout 2024 season was highlighted by a historic bronze medal at the European Athletics Championships in Rome—the first German medal in the event in 26 years. A two-time Olympian with a recent world-class personal best of 8:08.21, Bebendorf enters this new chapter at the peak of his athletic prime.
OAC Europe Head Coach Thomas Dreissigacker spoke about the addition to the team: “Karl is a great addition to our team. He has already shown his potential over the past years, while at the same time we see many areas in which he can continue to develop and improve. Karl has never trained in a group setting before. The team will support him in progressing his performance to a higher level in both training and competition. The goal is to become fully competitive at the international level and to demonstrate his finishing kick at championships in the future.”
Karl Bebendorf: A New Milestone
Hailing from Dresden, the 29-year-old has dominated the German domestic circuit for years, collecting six national titles in the 3000m steeplechase. Known for his explosive finishing kick and consistency, Bebendorf’s move to the OAC represents a commitment to a holistic training philosophy designed to produce podium results at the highest international level.
Reflecting on the move, Bebendorf said:
"Joining OAC Europe is a major milestone in my career. It provides me with incredible motivation and reinforces my drive to work every day toward becoming the best athlete I can be. The team, the setup, and the club’s holistic philosophy are truly unique—creating an environment where performance, personal growth, and team spirit come together at the highest level. This is exactly what inspires me to keep pushing my limits and to represent the OAC with total passion and conviction. Together, we’re growing beyond boundaries."
OAC Europe at a Glance
Founded in May 2022 as On’s second international professional team, the On Athletics Club (OAC) Europe consists of 15 world-class athletes under the leadership of Head Coach Thomas Dreissigacker and Assistant Coach Vincent Guyot. The team utilizes high-altitude training in St. Moritz during the summer and in South Africa during the winter months. OAC Europe has established itself as a premier force in international athletics, with a roster that consistently achieves national records, Diamond League victories, European Championship medals, and appearances in Olympic finals.
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About On
On was born in the Swiss Alps in 2010 with the mission to ignite the human spirit through movement – a mission that still guides the brand today. Sixteen years after market launch, On delivers industry-disrupting innovation in premium footwear, apparel and accessories for high-performance running, outdoor, training, all-day activities and tennis. On’s award-winning CloudTec® and LightSpray™ innovation, purposeful design and groundbreaking strides within the circular economy have attracted a fast-growing global fan base – inspiring humans to explore, discover and Dream On.
On is present in more than 80 countries globally and engages with a digital community on www.on.com.