Uganda’s long-distance star Jacob Kiplimo delivered a remarkable performance in his first-ever full marathon, claiming second place at the 2025 London Marathon on Sunday.
Kiplimo, who holds the world record in the half marathon, clocked an outstanding 2:03:37 over the 42.195 km course. His debut effort not only earned him a podium spot but also set a new Ugandan national record in the marathon discipline.
The race was won by Kenya’s Sabastian Sawe, who surged to the finish in 2:02:27, maintaining a strong lead throughout the race. Kiplimo was the only athlete able to keep close to Sawe, solidifying his status as a rising force in marathon running.
Sawe’s win continues Kenya’s dominance in the London Marathon men’s division, marking the fourth straight victory for the nation in this prestigious event.
Veteran marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge, competing for the first time since turning 40, crossed the line in sixth place with a time of 2:05:25.
On the women’s side, Ethiopia’s Tigst Assefa delivered a historic run, setting a new course record with a winning time of 2:15:40—beating the previous mark held by Kenya’s Peres Jepchirchir by 26 seconds.
Kenya’s Joyciline Jepkosgei finished second in 2:18:43, followed closely by Olympic champion Sifan Hassan of the Netherlands, who clocked 2:18:59. Uganda’s Stella Chesang made a strong showing, finishing sixth with a personal best time of 2:22:42.
Kiplimo’s stunning debut and Chesang’s top-10 finish highlight Uganda’s growing presence in global long-distance road racing.