Haftamu Abadi

Haftamu Abadi (born 25 March 2004) is an Ethiopian long-distance runner who competes in road races ranging from 10 kilometres to the marathon. He came to international attention after winning the 2025 Vienna City Marathon, becoming the youngest male winner in the event's history.^[1][2]

Haftamu Abadi

Personal information
Nationality	Ethiopian
Born	(2004-03-25) March 25, 2004 (age 21)
Sport
Sport	Athletics
Event(s)	Long-distance running (10K, Half Marathon, Marathon)

Early life and background

Haftamu was born in Ethiopia on 25 March 2004. He began appearing in international competitions in his late teens, primarily in long-distance road races.

Career

In 2024, he represented Ethiopia at the 2023 African Games in Accra, Ghana, competing in the men's half marathon. He placed fifth in the event.^[3]

On 6 April 2025, he claimed his first major victory by winning the 42nd Vienna City Marathon. He crossed the finish line in 2:08:28, setting a personal best and improving his previous mark by more than two minutes. The race took place in unseasonably cold weather, with temperatures at the start around 2°C.^[1] His win made him the youngest male champion in the history of the Vienna City Marathon, which has been held annually since 1984.^[2][4][5]

Personal life

Following his marathon victory in Vienna, he made a public expression of gratitude on social media, referencing his Christian faith. In a post, he credited the Virgin Mary for his success.^[6] Media coverage noted that he displayed a religious image, made the sign of the cross, and knelt in prayer after crossing the finish line.^[6]

Personal bests

As of April 2025, his personal best times are as follows:^[7]

• 10K Road – 27:38
• Half Marathon – 59:56
• Marathon – 2:08:28 (Vienna, 6 April 2025)