Former marathon world record holder Eliud Kipchoge, will not be part of Kenya’s team for the 2025 World Athletics Championships set for Tokyo, Japan.
The decision, confirmed by Athletics Kenya Youth and Development Director Barnaba Korir, comes after the two-time Olympic champion voluntarily chose to step aside in favor of younger athletes.
“We asked Kipchoge if he would participate, but he said he would prefer someone else to go this time round,” Korir told Citizen Digital.
“We don’t want to pressure him although we’d have liked him to go.”
Kipchoge’s withdrawal is not due to concerns over his recent form, despite some public scrutiny following his selection for the Paris 2024 Olympics. Instead, it’s a calculated decision that reflects both humility and leadership, allowing emerging talent to take the global spotlight.
Korir also emphasized the significance of Kipchoge’s influence, noting how his presence alone boosts the morale of the next generation.
“What many people don’t know is that his participation on the biggest stage inspires a lot of athletes. Some of these athletes are fired up when they see the greats lining up with them,” he said.
A Career Defined by Selective Excellence
Though Kipchoge is synonymous with marathon greatness, he has never made World Championships a central focus. His last appearance at the event dates back to 2011 in Daegu, South Korea, where he finished seventh in the 5,000m.
Since transitioning to road racing after failing to qualify for the 2012 London Olympics, Kipchoge has prioritized the Olympics and major marathon circuits such as Berlin, London, and Chicago, where he has cemented his dominance.
With the Tokyo World Championships sandwiched between key autumn marathons, it’s not uncommon for top-tier road runners to skip the event in favor of more lucrative and strategic races. Kipchoge’s decision may well be aligned with future plans, possibly targeting a final appearance in one of the major marathon stages.
At 40, Kipchoge’s aura continues to shape Kenyan athletics. His record-breaking feats, including being the first man to run a marathon in under two hours under special conditions, have left an indelible mark on the sport.
