London Marathon Showdown: Kiplimo joins elite field for highly anticipated debut

On Sunday, April 27, 2025, Jacob Kiplimo, Uganda’s renowned long-distance athlete, will make his highly anticipated marathon debut at the London Marathon.

A decorated champion, Kiplimo boasts an impressive array of accolades, including the 2020 World Half Marathon title, two cross-country championships, and a former World Record holder in the half marathon (2021-2024).

Kiplimo’s transition to the full marathon distance follows in the footsteps of his compatriot, Joshua Cheptegei.

However, it remains to be seen whether this move marks a permanent shift away from track events for Kiplimo.

The men’s elite race at the London Marathon promises to be a captivating contest, with Kiplimo joining an illustrious lineup that includes four-time London Marathon winner Eliud Kipchoge, Olympic champion Tamirat Tola, and defending champion Alexander Mutiso, among others.

In the women’s race, Stella Chesang, another Ugandan athlete, will also compete.

Chesang, who finished eighth at the Paris Olympics, will face formidable competition in a high-caliber field that features defending champion Peres Jepchirchir, Ethiopia’s Tigst Assefa, and versatile Dutch star Sifan Hassan, among others.