Kelvin Kiptum: London Marathon 2023 winner and world record holder dies in car crash in Kenya

The 24-year-old runner’s coach, Gervais Hakizimana, also died in the crash
John Besley12 February 2024

London Marathon winner and world record holder Kelvin Kiptum and his coach have died in a car accident in Kenya, it has been announced.

Kenyan member of parliament Gideon Kimaiyo confirmed the pair’s death in a statement on X.

Mr Kimaiyo said: “It is with heavy hearts that we learn of the passing of Kelvin Kiptum, the world marathon record holder, and his coach in a tragic accident along the Eldoret-Kaptagat road.

“Kelvin Kiptum was at the prime of his career, a legend in his own right. It’s a tough one to take.

Kelvin Kiptum celebrates winning the Chicago Marathon in a world record time of two hours and 35 seconds on October 8, 2023
AFP via Getty Images

“Our thoughts are with their families during this incredibly difficult time. The people of Keiyo South are saddened by this loss. May their souls rest in eternal peace.”

Kiptum, 24, set a new world record of two hours and 35 seconds at the Chicago Marathon in October last year.

He also won the London Marathon in 2023 with a record time of two hours, one minute and 25 seconds.

The organisers of the London Marathon said on X: “We are shocked and deeply saddened to hear the terrible news of the death of marathon world record holder Kelvin Kiptum and his coach, Gervais Hakizimana.

Wreckage of vehicle in which Kenya's marathon world record holder Kiptum and his coach were killed is towed near Eldoret
The wreckage of the vehicle in which Kenya's marathon world record holder Kelvin Kiptum and his coach were killed
REUTERS

“The thoughts of everyone at the TCS London Marathon are with Kelvin’s and Gervais’ family and friends.”

World Athletics president Seb Coe said: “We are shocked and deeply saddened to learn of the devastating loss of Kelvin Kiptum and his coach, Gervais Hakizimana.

“On behalf of all at World Athletics we send our deepest condolences to their families, friends, teammates and the Kenyan nation.

“It was only earlier this week in Chicago, the place where Kelvin set his extraordinary marathon World Record, that I was able to officially ratify his historic time.

“An incredible athlete leaving an incredible legacy, we will miss him dearly.”

Kelvin Kiptum celebrates his world record time in the 2023 Chicago Marathon
AFP via Getty Images

At the 2022 Valencia Marathon, Kiptum set the record for the fastest debut marathon in history, crossing the line in a course record of two hours, one minute and 53 seconds.

He was due to compete at the Rotterdam Marathon in April, which would have been his first event since setting the world record.

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