Tuesday, 10 November 2026
Kenyan Digest

Kipchoge reveals plans to defend Olympic marathon title in Tokyo ▷ Kenya News

2 min read
Published

- Eliud Kipchoge has opened the lid on his future plans weeks after becoming first runner to complete a marathon in under two hours

- The world marathon record holder has now announced his intention to compete in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics

- The competitions have been slated for between Friday, July 24, and Sunday, August 9

The greatest marathon runner in history, Eliud Kipchoge, has downplayed retirement plans despite breaking the two-hour marathon barrier during the INEOS 1:59 Challenge in Vienna, Austria.

Instead, the world record holder is now training his sights on defending his Olympic marathon title in August, 2020, in Tokyo.

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According to Sky Sports citing Reuters, Kipchoge revealed the 2020 Summer Olympics are in his plans and intends to participate - if selected.

“If selected I will be there. It (Tokyo) is at the front of my mind, and I trust and believe that when the time comes I will be on the starting line," the marathoner divulged.

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In a move aimed at avoiding the worst of the draining heat and extreme weather conditions of the Tokyo area, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has resolved to move the marathons and walking events to the northern city of Sapporo.

But when asked about the decision, Kipchoge exuded confidence and preparedness to compete anywhere.

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“I think the medals are the same. I will be among the competitors, I don’t complain, I’m in the hands of the IOC and anywhere they decide, I will go with it," the 35-year-old noted.

Back in October, Kipchoge became the first runner to complete a marathon in under two hours after staging an epic run in Vienna to clock an incredible 1:59:40.

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After the feat, many contended the Kenyan runner would now exit the track and dump his lycra shorts.

However, it appears the 2016 Rio Olympics champion has no intention of letting up in quest for more honours and medals.

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