Illustration for the question “Who holds the women’s world record for the 400 meters?”

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Who holds the women’s world record for the 400 meters?

Correct answer Marita Koch

Fact

Did you know?

Marita Koch, representative of the German Democratic Republic, ran the 400 meters in 47.60 seconds on October 6, 1985 in Canberra. This performance was achieved during the IAAF World Cup, a competition between continental and national teams, and not during the World Championships. Koch then improved his own world record. Her mark remains the women's outdoor world record at the date of the audit, although several contemporary athletes have come close. The record also falls within the controversial context of the East German sports system and its state doping program, without an individual positive test having canceled this performance.

Content last updated · August 14, 2026

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