Kenya: Marathon world record holder and long-distance running superstar, Kelvin Kiptum has died in a car accident in Kenya along with his coach.
The 24-year-old, who won the London Marathon in April before setting the world record in Chicago in October, lost control of his vehicle while driving in Kaptagat, south-western Kenya, police reported. Kiptum’s coach Gervais Hakizimana also died in the crash, while a third was said to have been hospitalized.
Raila Odinga, the Prime Minister of Kenya, paid tribute to the athlete and wrote on his X account that “Devastating news as we mourn the loss of a remarkable individual, Kelvin Kiptum, world record holder and Kenyan athletics icon. Together with his coach, they tragically passed on in an accident tonight. Our nation grieves the profound loss of a true hero.” Moreover, Kenya’s Sports Minister Ababu Namwamba, who added on X that “Devastatingly sickening! Kenya has lost a special gem. Lost for words.”
President of World Athletics, Sebastian Coe, has also said that he was “shocked and deeply saddened to learn of the devastating loss of Kiptum and Hakizimana. An incredible athlete leaving an incredible legacy, we will miss him dearly.” Local county commander, Peter Mulinge reported that Kelvin Kiptum, the world marathon record holder, was driving a vehicle with two passengers when the accident occurred.
Kiptum’s world record of 2-hour 0-minute 35-seconds, was recognized by World Athletics last week, taking 34 seconds off Eliud Kipchoge’s old mark. He also recently announced plans to become the first athlete to run an official marathon in under two hours in Rotterdam in April.
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