Kipchoge ‘breaks silence' over Kiptum’s marathon world record

By Peter Ochieng

Two-time-Olympic marathon champion Eliud Kipchoge has spoken for the first time, at least publicly over the new marathon record set by his compatriot Kelvin Kiptum early this month.

On 8th October, 2023, Kiptum set a new marathon world record of 2:00:35 during the Chicago marathon, breaking Eliud Kipchoge’s previous world marathon record of 2:01:09 set during the Berlin marathon in 2022.

Kenyans especially those on social media were surprised when Kipchoge failed to congratulate 23-year-old Kiptum for the feat.

However, speaking in Spain over the weekend, Kipchoge said he was happy to see his record being broken.

"I was not surprised about Kiptum breaking the world record. I was happy to see the record being broken. I am looking forward to seeing records being broken because I have shown them the way.”

He said he is looking forward to winning his third Olympic title, during the 2024 Olympic games in Paris, France, after his wins in 2016 and 2020.

Kipchoge and Kiptum are likely to fight for the Olympic gold.

“I will be the happiest on earth to win an Olympic medal for the third time, back-to-back. It’s about making history; it’s about inspiring a generation."

He was in Spain to receive the 2023 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports, which recognised achievements in his career, as well as his foundation to promote education and environmental protection.

“It is an absolute honour to receive the Princess of Asturias Award. To be amongst a list of extraordinary laureates, all people from different walks of life. It motivates me in my goal to leave a legacy in this world through running since a running world is a more peaceful world, a happier world and a healthier world," he stated.

He thanked Her Royal Highness the Princess of Asturias and her parents, their Majesties the King and Queen of Spain, for granting him the honour."