Harry Styles has stunned fans after secretly taking part in the Berlin Marathon under a false name – and finishing in an impressive time of just under three hours.
The 31-year-old singer, who rose to fame with One Direction before launching a hugely successful solo career, was among around 55,000 runners pounding the streets of the German capital on Sunday.
Berlin’s marathon is widely regarded as the world’s fastest course, having been the stage for multiple world records including Eliud Kipchoge’s extraordinary 2:01:09 run in 2022.
Styles reportedly registered under the alias Sted Sarandos, completing the gruelling 26.2-mile challenge in two hours, 59 minutes and 13 seconds.
A sub-three-hour marathon is considered a landmark achievement for amateur runners, with Styles crossing the line wearing a headband and sunglasses in an effort to stay incognito.
For many recreational runners, the goal of breaking three hours can take years of disciplined training, making his performance all the more striking.
German newspaper Der Tagesspiegel first reported his appearance, with organisers later confirming it to news agency dpa. The outlet added that Styles had been spotted training in Berlin in the days leading up to the race.
After finishing, the pop star posed for a photo with Paralympic legend Richard Whitehead, who is currently attempting to run 20 marathons in a single year. Whitehead, a two-time Paralympic gold medallist, shared the snap on Instagram, praising Styles for the feat and joking that the pair had both earned their medals the hard way.
The As It Was hitmaker’s latest achievement comes as he continues to enjoy time away from touring. Since leaving One Direction, Styles has carved out a stellar solo career with three chart-topping albums.
His 2017 self-titled debut introduced his rock-influenced sound, 2019’s Fine Line delivered the Grammy-winning “Watermelon Sugar,” and 2022’s Harry’s House went on to scoop Album of the Year at the Grammys, fuelled by the global smash “As It Was.”
Beyond music, the star has also made his mark in fashion and film, starring in blockbusters Don’t Worry Darling and My Policeman.
Earlier this year, Styles made headlines once again when he was spotted walking arm-in-arm through Rome with actor Zoë Kravitz, fuelling fevered speculation online about a possible romance.
