LONDON (AP) — Jacob Kiplimo announced his arrival on the marathon stage in stunning fashion at the 2025 London Marathon, finishing second behind a sensational solo performance by Kenya’s Sabastian Sawe.
Running in warm conditions, Kiplimo — the world record holder for the half marathon — handled the step up to the full distance impressively. Though he ultimately couldn’t close the gap on the frontrunning Sawe, Kiplimo’s finish in 2:03:37 was a remarkable achievement in his marathon debut.
“I’m so excited about what I did today,” Kiplimo said after crossing the line. “Unfortunately, the gap was a little bit big, but this is just the beginning for me.”
The Ugandan star had been tipped as one to watch after demolishing the half marathon world record in February. Despite experiencing some cramping during the race, he showed resilience and tactical maturity, ensuring he stayed clear of a frantic battle for third place that unfolded behind him.
Sawe, 29, broke away from a leading pack with about 10 kilometers remaining, making a bold move that paid off handsomely. Clocking 2:02:27, Sawe claimed the biggest win of his career and became the fourth consecutive Kenyan man to win in London.
“I saw my opportunity at the drinks station and just pushed,” Sawe said. “It gives me hope that the marathon will become easier for me with time.”
In a thrilling sprint finish for third, Kenya’s Alexander Mutiso narrowly edged out Abdi Nageeye of the Netherlands, the two separated by a photo finish after battling down the final stretch.
The women’s race also saw history as Ethiopia’s Tigst Assefa captured her first London Marathon title. Assefa, already a two-time Berlin Marathon winner, crossed in 2:15:50, setting a new women’s-only world record for the event. She pulled away from former champion Joyciline Jepkosgei late on, with Sifan Hassan of the Netherlands coming home third.
The wheelchair events delivered their own drama. Swiss star Catherine Debrunner defended her women’s title with a near-world-record time of 1:34:18, while compatriot Marcel Hug continued his dominance in the men’s race, holding off Japan’s Tomoki Suzuki.
