Eliud Kipchoge, one of distance running’s all-time greats, is set to make his return to the London Marathon this April.
The Kenyan legend, a two-time Olympic marathon gold medallist, has won the men’s race in London a record four times and last competed there in 2020. Despite turning 40 and enduring a “demoralising” mid-race drop-out at the Paris Olympics, Kipchoge remains determined to challenge for a historic fifth victory in the British capital.
“Sport is full of challenges,” Kipchoge reflected. “I’m still working hard to improve, to inspire people, and to demonstrate the power of sport. I believe I can still compete, and I’m training hard to race alongside the younger generation.”
The 2025 London Marathon is scheduled for Sunday, 27 April, and race organisers are promising an unforgettable event.
Hugh Brasher, CEO of the London Marathon, called this year’s elite line-up “the greatest in the history of the London Marathon.”
The women’s field will feature world record holder Ruth Chepngetich, reigning Olympic champion Sifan Hassan, and silver medallist Tigist Assefa – the three fastest women in marathon history. British runner Eilish McColgan will also make her much-anticipated debut.
On the men’s side, Emile Cairess will lead British hopes, potentially aiming to break Mo Farah’s national record. He’ll be joined by Olympic and world triathlon champion Alex Yee in a strong domestic showing.
A Marathon Legend Returns
Kipchoge’s illustrious career includes breaking barriers and rewriting the history books. In 2019, he became the first person to run a marathon in under two hours, clocking 1:59:40 in a specially staged event. While not officially recognised due to the use of pacemakers and closed conditions, it remains one of the sport’s most iconic achievements.
His official personal best of 2:01:09 is the second-fastest marathon time ever recorded. Kipchoge also boasts 11 victories in the world’s major marathons, including an unbeaten run at the London Marathon from 2015 to 2019.
His last London appearance came in 2020 during the Covid-19 pandemic, where he finished eighth – his only defeat in 16 marathons during a dominant period from 2014 to 2022.
Future Plans
When asked about retirement, Kipchoge stayed focused on the task ahead, saying he will decide his future only after this year’s race in London.
Brasher didn’t hold back in his praise for the Kenyan star, calling him “the greatest marathon runner of this or any era.”
“You could argue that Kipchoge’s sustained dominance in marathon racing makes him the greatest athlete we’ve ever seen,” Brasher added.
As anticipation builds for the London Marathon, all eyes will be on Kipchoge to see if he can make history yet again.
SOURCE: BBC
Join our WhatsApp channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakDz4u9RZATWh53yC1a
