Yeman Crippa Claims Historic Victory on the Streets of Paris
Clocking a blistering 2:05:18, the On athlete shatters his personal best to become the first Italian winner in the event’s history.
Paris, France, April 12, 2026 - On Athlete Yeman Crippa secured a dominant victory at the marathon in Paris, crossing the finish line in a blistering personal best of 2:05.18, becoming the first-ever Italian man to win the prestigious event and the first European man in 24 years to win the race.
The 28 year old Eitrian born Italian delivered a masterclass in tactical running. After a dense lead pack remained grouped through the 35th kilometer, Crippa made his decisive move within the final stretch. Utilizing his signature track speed, he broke away from the field to finish ahead of Ethiopia’s Bayelign Teshager (2:05:24) and Kenya’s Sila Kiptoo (2:05:29).
Speaking after the race, Crippa said, “My career as a marathon runner begins today," he said. "I have finally found the right path. Today I redeemed myself for my 25th-place finish at the Paris Olympics, and a completely new page opens. This morning, I discovered I have a real feeling for the marathon."
From the Track to the Marathon
Sunday’s triumph along the Seine was Crippa’s seventh career marathon, representing the culmination of a brilliant transition from the stadium to the road. Before conquering the 42.2km distance, the On athlete systematically dismantled the Italian record books, breaking historic marks that had stood since the 1980s and 90s. He remains the national record holder across an unprecedented range of distances—including the 3,000m, 5,000m, and 10,000m on the track, as well as the 5km, 10km, and a 59:01 half-marathon on the road. A champion of the highest order, Crippa’s resume is anchored by his 2022 European 10,000m title and his 2024 European Half Marathon gold in Rome. While his marathon debut in Milan three years ago was a vital learning experience, this victory proves he has successfully refined his elite engine to compete at the very front of the world's most competitive road races.
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.