Berlin Marathon Organizers Prepare For Possible Climate Activist Disruption

Organizers of the Berlin marathon have issued a plea to climate activists not to disrupt this weekend's race but have assured they are ready to handle any potential disruptions. Juergen Lock, the managing director of SCC Events, responsible for Sunday's marathon in Berlin, acknowledged the possibility of protests along the race route and stated, "We hope nothing untoward happens in terms of a demonstration but we have plans for such eventualities." He also noted that his team was in close coordination with the police to ensure the race proceeds smoothly. Lock expressed optimism for a peaceful weekend of sports and urged demonstrators not to interfere with the event itself. The Last Generation climate action group, known for its attention-grabbing stunts to raise awareness about climate issues, had previously announced its intention to target the marathon. In a statement, the group clarified their intent, saying, "Because there seems to be confusion: yes, we will interrupt the Berlin marathon. We can't run away from the climate catastrophe." The tactics employed by Letzte Generation activists, which include gluing themselves to roads to draw attention to climate emergencies, have divided public opinion. In May, German prosecutors conducted home raids on several activists over suspicions of "forming or supporting a criminal organization." Activists have faced fines for disrupting traffic and obstructing law enforcement, with some even receiving jail sentences. Last weekend, Last Generation activists advocating for the abandonment of fossil fuels spray-painted Berlin's iconic Brandenburg Gate, located at the marathon's finish line. Kenya's Eliud Kipchoge, who set a new world record on the same course last year, will be among the elite runners participating in Sunday's marathon. The 38-year-old Kipchoge aims to make history by becoming the first athlete to win the race five times, currently sharing the record of four victories with Ethiopian Haile Gebrselassie.