Runner reports racial abuse during Great North Run in Newcastle
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 14, 2026, 9:07 AM
Last updated Sep 14, 2026

During the Great North Run on September 13, Emma Kirk-Odunubi alleged that she faced racial abuse from spectators around the nine-mile mark. Kirk-Odunubi shared a video detailing the incident, describing it as her worst experience in a race over her ten-year running career. The race organizers expressed shock and sadness over the event, stating they do not condone such behavior. The Great North Run, which attracts approximately 63,000 participants annually, aims to raise around £25 million for charity. Discussions with Kirk-Odunubi are ongoing as the organizers seek to address the issue.
- •Emma Kirk-Odunubi reports racial abuse during the Great North Run.
- •The incident occurred near the nine-mile mark of the 13.1-mile race.
- •Organizers expressed their shock and stated that such behavior is unacceptable.
- •Over 200,000 spectators attended the event, which also featured notable participants.
- •Discussions between Kirk-Odunubi and organizers are currently ongoing.
- 9:07 AMYahoo Sports — Runner alleges racial abuse during Great North Run
"A runner in the Great North Run says she was racially abused by a section of spectators.
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