Girl (15) passes away during Leiden Half Marathon

During the Leiden Marathon on May 10, 2026, a 15-year-old girl from Oegstgeest became unwell and passed away. This happened at the corner of the Lage Rijndijk and the Herensingel. The girl was treated on the spot, but could not be saved.

Tjeerd Scheffer of the Leiden Marathon is deeply affected by the news: “This is devastating news, first and foremost for the family this girl was part of. And for relatives, friends and acquaintances, this sudden passing is an enormous blow. Our thoughts are with them and we wish them great strength.”

Mayor Peter Heijkoop of Leiden is also shaken: “This is incredibly sad news, the shock is immense. As a father, as a lover of running and also as mayor, I feel deeply for them. My heart goes out to the family that has been struck by this.”

The organisation of the Leiden Marathon has decided not to start the 10 kilometres and the Kidsrun. Participants in the marathon or half marathon who are still on the course will be able to finish their race.