The organizers of the Sydney Marathon took the mistake that led to a German stadium being depicted on the participants’ medals in stride, stating that “we’re not going to hide from this.”
The issue arose after the event’s official social media account posted, earlier this week, the design for this year’s medal, which mistakenly featured Munich’s Allianz Arena instead of Sydney’s Allianz Stadium.
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A spokesperson for the Sydney Marathon told the BBC: “A bit too much… international flair found its way onto the back of the finishers’ medal, with an incorrect depiction of the stadium.”
Organizers of the 2026 Sydney Marathon have sparked laughter online by unveiling a finishers’ medal depicting a stadium in Munich, Germany https://t.co/GMH544akJp
— RTÉ News (@rtenews) August 23, 2026
“This was an unfortunate mistake,” he added.
The double-sided medal features recognizable Sydney landmarks, such as the Opera House and the Harbour Bridge, which are part of the 42.2-kilometer course.
Social media users noted that the shape of the stadium engraved on the medal does not accurately reflect the building’s actual form.
Munich’s Allianz Arena is characterized by thousands of diamond-shaped inflatable cushions, while the Allianz Stadium in Sydney—which bears the same name—has a flatter facade with a smooth surface and elongated bronze fins.
Organizers confirmed that runners will receive a medal depicting the stadium in another city, commenting: “It’s a beautiful medal, and now a little more unique.”
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“It certainly gave everyone something to talk about this weekend, mostly in good spirits,” they added.
Germany’s Allianz Arena also reacted to the mistake with humor, posting on Instagram: “Wow, we didn’t see that coming!”
“Maybe they were trying to find another commonality: Allianz Arena – Sydney Opera House – Unique architecture – Both are worth a visit!”
The reverse side of the Sydney Marathon medal features a design in gold and indigo, designed by Aboriginal artist Ambrose Kilian, who has received widespread recognition for his intricate design.
He confirmed that he did not participate in the design of the other side of the medal, which bears an incorrect depiction of the stadium.
Approximately 40,000 runners will participate in the event on August 30, following more than 120,000 applications.
SOURCE: CNN Greece
