Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
Six Ethiopian athletes are among the 12 competitors in the women's 5000m final at the 2026 World Ultimate Championship in Budapest. Likina Amebaw holds the world-leading time this year with 14:18.41, just ahead of compatriots Aleshign Baweke and Freweyni Hailu, who won the Diamond League Final in Brussels with 14:35.20. Other Ethiopians in the race include Senayet Getachew, Hirut Meshesha, and Fantaye Belayneh, making up six of the seven fastest women worldwide this year.
Australia’s Rose Davies, the Commonwealth champion, and Jessica Hull, Olympic 1500m silver medallist, are among the challengers. Shelby Houlihan, who placed fourth in last year’s World Championships 5000m, is also competing. European silver medallist Marta García and experienced Dutch runner Maureen Koster complete the field.
Given Ethiopia's dominance in times and recent results, Hailu, Amebaw, and their teammates are expected to control the race. However, tactical strategies, including endurance or positioning before the final lap, could significantly influence the outcome.