Tributes to London Marathon winner
Kelvin Kiptum has died aged 24
Last updated 12th Feb 2024
Sir Mo Farah has described Kelvin Kiptum as a "special talent", after the marathon world record holder died at the age of 24.
He was killed in a car crash in Kenya, along with his coach Gervais Hakizimana.
Farah says Kiptum, who won last year's London Marathon, would have gone on to have "an incredible career".
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.
"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.
Hugh Brasher, Event Director of the TCS London Marathon, said:
“Kelvin had the sport of marathon running in his feet and at his feet. He was a 'once in a generation' athlete who was set to redefine the boundaries of our sport. Three marathons, three wins. The fastest marathon debutant in Valencia, London's course record holder and the world record holder in Chicago, all within the space of less than 12 months. His was a flame that burned so bright and last night was tragically put out.
“As a sport we mourn for a life so tragically cut short, a talent and a work ethos that was only starting to be appreciated and a man that we had only just started to know.
“Our thoughts are with his family and friends and those of his coach Gervais.
“We hope that Sharon Chepkurui Kosgei, who was travelling with them, makes a full and speedy recovery.”
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."
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.