In a remarkable display of endurance and speed, Uganda’s Jacob Kiplimo shattered the half marathon world record at the eDreams Mitja Marató de Barcelona on February 16, 2025. Kiplimo completed the 21.0975-kilometer course in a staggering 56 minutes and 41 seconds, surpassing the previous record by 49 seconds.
This achievement marks the most significant improvement in the men’s half marathon world record, as noted by World Athletics. The previous record of 57:30 was set by Ethiopia’s Yomif Kejelcha in October 2024, which had narrowly eclipsed Kiplimo’s own 2021 record of 57:31.
Kiplimo attributed his success to the ideal race conditions in Barcelona, highlighting the perfect temperature, absence of wind, and excellent course layout. He expressed surprise at breaking the 57-minute barrier, stating, “I found myself full of energy and decided to inject a brisker rhythm from the third kilometre, but I never imagined to perform under the 57-minute barrier, that’s astonishing.”
At 24 years old, Kiplimo has consistently demonstrated his prowess in long-distance running. He is the reigning world half marathon champion and secured a bronze medal in the 10,000 meters at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. This latest accomplishment further cements his status as one of the premier long-distance runners globally.
Looking ahead, Kiplimo announced plans to make his marathon debut at the London Marathon on April 27, 2025. This transition to the full marathon distance will be closely watched by athletics enthusiasts, eager to see how his half marathon success translates to the 42.195-kilometer challenge.
In related events, Japan’s Toshikazu Yamanishi set a new world record in the men’s 20 km race walk on the same day, clocking one hour, 16 minutes, and 10 seconds in Kobe. This broke the previous record held since 2015, underscoring a day of exceptional performances in athletics.
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