The 2025 TCS London Marathon is set to be one of the most memorable editions in history as legendary runner Eliud Kipchoge makes his highly anticipated return—potentially for the final time on the iconic course.
While the Kenyan icon, a four-time London champion, remains a fan favorite, race organizers believe this year’s event could mark the dawn of a new era, with Ugandan debutant Jacob Kiplimo tipped as a potential record-breaker.
At 40, Kipchoge may no longer be the bookmakers’ favourite, but his impact on the London Marathon and the wider world of distance running remains unmatched.
Event Director Hugh Brasher has confirmed that organisers are planning a special tribute to celebrate Kipchoge’s extraordinary contribution to the race and the sport at large. However, Brasher was quick to caution against assumptions that this would be Kipchoge’s swan song in London.
“Eliud has been the most unbelievable ambassador for the sport and the London Marathon,” Brasher said during a pre-race press briefing as qouted by The Mirror.
“We’re so delighted he is back. Do we intend to honour him? Yes, we do. Do I think this is his last London? I hope not. But I really look forward to whatever he’ll do on the day.”
As Kipchoge prepares for what could be one of his final races in the British capital, attention is also turning to Uganda’s Jacob Kiplimo, who will make his marathon debut on Sunday. Kiplimo, who broke the half marathon record in February, is tipped as distance running’s next superstar.
Brasher praised Kiplimo’s potential, calling his debut one of marathon history’s most fascinating.
“It’s unpredictable. Is it feasible that he could take Kelvin Kiptum’s record as fastest debutant? Without a doubt,” he remarked.
“What’s he going to do? I’ve no idea. I don’t know whether he’ll go through halfway in 60 minutes, 61 or 62 minutes, whatever, but that could be four minutes slower than his half marathon time. When you compare his half marathon time to Eliud’s, it is so much quicker.”
Yet, Brasher was quick to note that marathon success is about far more than raw speed. He compared Kipchoge’s diesel-like endurance outshines elites who excel in shorter races but falter in marathons.
“Geoffrey Kamworor was a world record holder for the half marathon, but his engine didn’t translate as well to the marathon,” Brasher explained.
“What Eliud can do is he chugs and chugs at an incredible pace, burning carbohydrates slowly. Is that Jacob? I’ve no idea. His coach will know, but I’m just delighted he’s chosen to debut here.”
The race director noted rising record-breaking debuts, like Sebastian Sawe’s in Valencia—second-fastest debut ever
“Now you have Jacob coming in. It’ll be fascinating,” Brasher added.
“Do I think Jacob could be the athlete who runs under two hours? Yes, but let’s see what happens on Sunday.”
Whether it’s Kipchoge’s farewell, Kiplimo’s coronation, or a stunning surprise, the 2025 London Marathon will be an unmissable spectacle.
