European Marathon Championship: Israel Wins Team Gold

Israel's marathon team delivered a commanding performance at the European Athletics Championships on Sunday, capturing the team gold medal for the second consecutive year and third time in the competition's history. The Israeli runners posted a combined time of 6:28:37, securing first place in the team standings.

Alongside the team victory, Gashau Ayele achieved individual success by finishing third and claiming the bronze medal. Ayele, who won silver at last year's championship, recorded a time of 2:09:21, earning his second consecutive individual medal at the European event.

Germany's Emanuel Petros took individual gold, completing the marathon in 2:09:11 and setting a new championship record. Italy's Pietro Riva finished seven seconds behind him at 2:09:18 to claim silver. Ayele crossed the finish line just three seconds after Riva to round out the podium.

In a touching moment after the race, Petros and Ayele embraced and congratulated each other on their achievements.

The remaining members of Israel's team also turned in impressive performances. Tedesa Getahon placed fifth with a time of 2:09:31, while Aymero Almayehu finished eighth at 2:09:45.

The combined results of Ayele, Getahon, and Almayehu—finishing third, fifth, and eighth respectively—gave Israel the best aggregate time in the competition. Germany finished second in the team standings, with France taking team bronze.

Israel's squad also included Maru Teferi, considered one of the continent's top runners, along with Yetayehu Abuye and Bukayu Melda. Almayehu came into the championship after finishing fourth at last year's World Championships.

This latest gold adds to Israel's growing marathon legacy, marking the team's second consecutive European team title and third overall. For Ayele, it represents another podium appearance at the European level, though he traded last year's silver for bronze this time around.