Which runner was disqualified after leading the 1908 Olympic marathon into the stadium?

Dorando Pietri was disqualified after leading the 1908 Olympic marathon into the stadium.

The Italian runner entered London’s White City Stadium first but became disoriented and ran in the wrong direction. Officials helped him back onto the course, and he eventually crossed the finish line ahead of American Johnny Hayes. Because he received assistance, the United States team protested, and Pietri was disqualified.

Hayes was awarded the gold medal, while Pietri received no official medal. Queen Alexandra presented Pietri with a special cup in recognition of his dramatic effort, helping make the episode one of the most famous stories in Olympic marathon history.

The race also influenced the standard marathon distance. Its route from Windsor Castle to the stadium measured 26 miles and 385 yards, which was later formalised as 42.195 kilometres. Pietri’s result is therefore memorable both for the disqualification and for the race’s lasting influence on marathon history.