[1] The race was won by 0.48 seconds by Mo Farah, the reigning 5000 metres World Champion, in a time of 27:30.42.

From the beginning Farah stayed close to the race leaders, who on the first lap were the defending champion Kenenisa Bekele and his brother Tariku.

[2] After six laps, the half marathon world record holder Zersenay Tadese and his Eritrean teammates began to push the pace.

Strategic play continued as Tariku elbowed Farah, causing him to step to the outside ready to cover a move.

With two laps to go, Tariku Bekele regained the lead, with Farah on his shoulder and Moses Ndiema Masai, Rupp and Michuri following in close formation.