The 2026 Delaware Marathon ended in stunning fashion on Sunday, when one runner celebrated victory before he was beaten at the line by his rival.

Nearly 700 people took part in the 26.2-mile race in Wilmington and, after more than two hours on the road, the top two were separated by less than a second come the home straight.

Carson Mello, 24, appeared to be cruising to victory, with even the race announcer crowing him as the winner as he ran toward the line.

Mello raised his hands in celebration and soaked up the cheers of the crowd, oblivious to the fact that Joshua Jackson was closing in.

Just meters from the line, Mello eased up and prepared to stop his watch as Jackson sprinted past him in celebration.

On the official clock, Jackson – 24 and from Pottstown, Pennsylvania – finished in 2:43:13.51, with Mello’s time listed as 2:43:14.46.

Joshua Jackson pipped Carson Mello to victory at the 2026 Delaware Marathon on Sunday

Seconds earlier, Mello was seen raising his arms in celebration as Jackson hunted him down 

Footage of the finish quickly went viral across social media and from another angle, Jackson can be seen sprinting for the line with Mello in the distance.

He is being urged on by supporters on the street, one of whom is heard shouting: ‘Catch him! Get him! Get him!’

The dramatic finish sparked screams and cheers from the crowd in Wilmington but embarrassment for the race announcer. 

‘What a great, great occasion – 26.2 miles… as we see Carlos coming down. Now here’s your champion,’ he said as Mello headed down the home straight.

‘Come on Wilmington… Carson Mello!’ he continued before Jackson stole victory at the line. ‘… And Joshua Jackson!’ the announcer said.

The two women holding up the tape, meanwhile, were left in shock at the brutal ending.