Eliud Kipchoge: I am deeply saddened by tragic death of Kelvin Kiptum

Two-time Olympic champion Eliud Kipchoge has joined Kenyans in mourning world marathon record holder Kelvin Kiptum who died in a road crash on Sunday night.

Kiptum, 24, and his Rwandese coach Gervais Hakizimana died around 11 p.m. along the Elgeyo Marakwet-Ravine Road in the Kaptagat area, Elgeyo Marakwet County.

Through a post on X, Kipchoge eulogised Kiptum as a rising star destined for greatness.

“I am deeply saddened by the tragic passing of the Marathon World record holder and rising star Kelvin Kiptum,” the celebrated marathoner said.

“An athlete who had a whole life ahead of him to achieve incredible greatness. I offer my deepest condolences to his young family. May God comfort you during this trying time.”

Kiptum gained global prominence in April last year after winning the London Marathon with a record time of two hours, one minute and 25 seconds.

In October, he broke Kipchoge’s record during the 2023 Chicago marathon, clocking two hours and 35 seconds in the 42-kilometre race held in Chicago in October.

Kiptum and Kipchoge were set to go head-to-head in this year’s Olympic Games in Paris.

The 24-year-old’s death came just days after his world record was ratified by World Athletics. He was preparing to open his new season at the Rotterdam Marathon on April 14.

World Athletics President Seb Coe in a statement on Monday extended the organisation’s condolences to Kiptum’s family, friends, teammates, and the entire Kenyan nation, describing him as “an extraordinary athlete leaving behind an extraordinary legacy.”

“He will be greatly missed,” Coe said in the post shared on X.

Other leaders who have mourned the marathon star are President William Ruto, First Lady Rachel Ruto, Sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, among others.