It’s official. Greatest marathoner of all time Eliud Kipchoge is running the 2025 TCS Sydney Marathon presented by ASICS. And we’re excited. Here are five reasons why Kipchoge coming to Sydney is a MAJOR deal for us.
#1. He’s the GOAT
Often called a ‘living legend’, the Kenyan superstar Kipchoge is the only human in history to run a marathon in under two hours (that's 2 minutes, 50 seconds every kilometre!). If that isn’t impressive enough – hint: it already is – he’s also a two-time Olympic gold medallist and an 11-time Abbott World Marathon Majors champion, including wins at the TCS London Marathon, BMW Berlin Marathon, Bank of America Chicago Marathon, and Tokyo Marathon. “I am excited for the opportunity to race in Sydney, Australia and experience this great marathon for the first time,” he explains. “Running has the power to inspire and unite people, and I look forward to joining the wonderful Australian running community as the country and the world embraces this rapidly growing event.”
#2. He’s helping define Australian sporting history
As we enter our first official year as an Abbott World Marathon Major (go us!), Kipchoge’s decision to run in Sydney this year helps us mark one of the most significant moments in Australian marathon history. As TCS Sydney Marathon Race Director, Wayne Larden, put it:
“Having [Kipchoge] race the TCS Sydney Marathon in its first year as an Abbott World Marathon Major is a dream come true,” he says. “His presence will elevate the event to new heights, bringing an unprecedented level of excitement, prestige, and global attention.”
#3. He’s inspiring the world
Looking at the responses we got from announcing he is heading down under, it’s pretty clear that Kipchoge is inspiring Aussies to dig deep on the course. One runner said “I thought I was excited when I got my ballot spot. Doesn’t even compare to the excitement I feel now!”, and another said they were “crying tears of pure joy” because they’re going to run the same day and same course as their idol. Seeing one of the world’s most impressive marathoners and global sporting heroes will inspire non-runners as well, with many planning to watch the race in person for a once-in-a-lifetime moment. “We expect thousands of sports fans and spectators to line the streets of Sydney to witness history in the making. We cannot wait to welcome him to Sydney,” adds Larden. "This will elevate the participant experience for runners taking part in the 2025 race as we push towards the sort of spectator numbers you see at other Abbott World Marathon Majors event like London and New York City where millions of spectators line the course to support runners to the finish line."
#4. He’s a champion of charity
Apart from being a champion of champions, Kipchoge is also firmly focused on giving back through his charity the Kipchoge Foundation. One of their biggest achievements to date has been establishing the Eliud Kipchoge Library in Kapsisiywa, Kenya, which provides books and learning tools to the local community. His drive for helping others perfectly marries with our commitment for raising charity donations through TCS Sydney Marathon. “As an athlete, I have the privilege to travel the world, and I see that the world is a village,” he explains. “I want the world to breathe together. Through education and through environment conservation, I hope to share my experience and my solidarity to those who need it.” Like we said, Legend.
#5. He’s spreading the word about Sydney’s beauty (and kangaroos!)
We think Sydney is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, mainly because it is. So we love that Kipchoge is already excited about travelling to Australia to see the country. In fact, the TCS Sydney Marathon will mark the first time he’s ever raced in Oceania, so it’s a pretty big deal! “Every marathon is a new challenge,” he says, “and I am eager to test myself on the streets of this beautiful city. I hope to see you all in Sydney!" And we can’t wait. But that’s not all, he’s also looking forward to meeting a few locals. “I especially want to see kangaroos,’ he says. ‘I don’t want to come to Australia and miss seeing kangaroos.” We think we can arrange that, mate!
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