Lengthy-distance runner Felicien Muhitira is uncertain to characteristic on the upcoming 2026 Kigali Worldwide Peace Marathon after struggling an Achilles tendon damage, regardless of being named within the nationwide group squad for the occasion.
The 32-year-old was chosen alongside Noel Hitimana and Premier Manirafasha to signify Rwanda within the males's full marathon (42km), scheduled for June 13-14.
Nonetheless, he has withdrawn from the nationwide group's coaching camp after being identified with an Achilles tendon rupture.
ALSO READ: Muhitira returns to nationwide group after five-year suspension
Talking solely to Instances Sport, Muhitira admitted that the damage has dominated him out of representing Rwanda on the occasion, simply as he was set to make his return to worldwide competitors after practically 5 years away following a suspension.
“I thank the federation for giving me the chance to return and signify my nation. Sadly, the call-up got here whereas I used to be recovering from an damage, and my docs suggested me to relaxation for a month. I instantly knowledgeable the federation about my situation,” he mentioned.
The athlete added that medical examinations, together with radiography, led his physician to advise towards competing within the full marathon for now and as a substitute give attention to shorter distances.
“I may presumably compete within the half marathon as a result of I really feel extra snug over that distance in the meanwhile. But when I do, will probably be as a person and never as a part of the nationwide group,” he defined.
ALSO READ: Why Niyonkuru, Imanizabayo withdrew from Kigali Marathon
The Kigali Worldwide Peace Marathon is anticipated to draw elite athletes and beginner runners from throughout the area. Winners of the total marathon will obtain $20,000 (roughly Rwf29 million), whereas the second- and third-place finishers will earn $15,000 (about Rwf22 million) and $7,500 (round Rwf11 million), respectively.
Within the half marathon, the winner will pocket $5,000 (roughly Rwf7 million), with the runner-up and third-place finisher taking dwelling $4,000 and $3,000, respectively.
