'We're not going to run from it': Sydney Marathon laughs off medal error

The Sydney Marathon has dismissed a mistake etching Munich's Allianz Arena onto finishers' medals, stating they are not backing away from the error. The issue came to light when the event's official social media shared the medal design, which incorrectly featured the German stadium instead of Sydney's Allianz Stadium. A spokesperson for Sydney Marathon remarked, "A little too much international flavour has found its way onto the back of the finishers medal, with an incorrect depiction of the stadium." They added it was "an unfortunate error."

Despite the blunder, Sydney Marathon's medal remains adorned with recognisable landmarks, including the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Social media users noticed the stadium engraved on the medal appeared to be sculpted with diamond-shaped inflatable cushions like Munich's Allianz Arena, while Sydney's stadium has a flatter facade smoothed with long bronze fins. Sydney Marathon affirmed runners would be awarded the medal with the incorrect stadium, noting it has made the medal "a little more unique."

Even Munich's Allianz Arena joined in on the joke, posting on Instagram, "Oh wow, we didn't have that on our bingo card!" The reverse side of the Sydney Marathon medal showcases a gold and indigo pattern, designed by First Nations artist Ambrose Killian, who confirmed he was not involved in designing the stadium face. The marathon, which will see over 40,000 participants on August 30th following more than 120,000 ballot entries, highlighted record participation and fundraising for this year's event.