Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
Alison dos Santos claimed the 400m hurdles title at the World Athletics Ultimate Championship Budapest 26, recording a time of 45.98 seconds. This performance is the third-fastest ever, behind only his own world record of 45.80 and Karsten Warholm's former world record of 45.94 set at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021. Dos Santos pulled ahead of USA’s world and Olympic champion Rai Benjamin approaching the final barrier and won with a clear margin.
The race featured a close contest among dos Santos, Benjamin, and Warholm, Norway’s former world record-holder. After staying neck and neck through the initial hurdles, dos Santos and Benjamin gained a lead from the third hurdle onward. Dos Santos was a stride ahead at the final hurdle and extended his advantage to the finish. Benjamin finished second with a time of 46.40, while Warholm took third in 46.78 seconds, just ahead of Emil Agyekum, who set a German record of 47.10.
Benjamin completed a demanding weekend schedule, which included the 400m semifinals, 400m final, 400m hurdles semifinals, and 400m hurdles final over three days. He described the experience as challenging but enjoyable, emphasizing his focus on winning in the final race against tough competition.
Dos Santos reflected on his mindset for the race, noting the difference between championship racing and the Diamond League circuit. He stressed that winning was more important than simply running fast in championship settings, anticipating a fierce battle, especially in the race’s final stages.