Marileidy Paulino out of World Athlete of the Year Final

Dominican sprinter Marileidy Paulino finished fifth in the voting for the 2026 World Athlete of the Year award, missing out on the three finalists announced Wednesday by World Athletics.

Paulino was among 10 athletes initially selected by an international panel of athletics experts. The finalists were chosen through a vote involving fans, athletes, media representatives and members of the World Athletics community.

American Melissa Jefferson-Wooden, her compatriot Masai Russell, and Swiss runner Audrey Werro advanced to the final. The winner will be announced at the World Athletics Awards ceremony on November 29 in Monaco.

Paulino finished behind Ethiopian Tigst Assefa, who placed fourth. The remaining positions were occupied by Kenya’s Agnes Ngetich, American Chase Jackson, China’s Yan Ziyi, Spain’s María Pérez and Canada’s Camryn Rogers.

World Athletics highlighted Paulino’s 2026 season, in which she won the 400 meters at the Ultimate Championship and reclaimed the Diamond League title.