Jacob Kiplimo, fresh from his historic victory at the Chicago Marathon, has returned home to a hero’s welcome — and a clear vision for the next chapter of his athletic journey.
The 24-year-old became the first Ugandan ever to win a World Marathon Major after clocking an impressive 2:02:23, a new national record, cementing his place among the world’s elite distance runners. The win also marked a remarkable rise for Kiplimo, who finished second in his marathon debut in London earlier this year.
“I sure don’t want to talk about the marathon,” Kiplimo said modestly upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport. “But one thing is clear. I travelled knowing that I am coming up against some of the best in the world, and I thank God I bettered them.”
After an intense marathon season, Kiplimo says he will take a short rest before shifting focus to defending his World Cross Country Championship title scheduled for January 10, 2026, in Tallahassee, Florida, USA.
The long-distance star also confirmed a major shift in his career plans — a full transition from track to road and cross-country events. “I may never be seen again running on the track,” Kiplimo revealed, “my focus now is entirely on road races.”
Sports officials have hailed his achievements as a major boost for Uganda’s sporting image. Milton Chebet, the Assistant General Secretary of the National Council of Sports, said Kiplimo’s success reinforces the value of investing in athletes. “His victory inspires government to keep supporting sports, which in turn markets the country globally,” Chebet noted.
Over the years, Kiplimo has built an extraordinary résumé — double Commonwealth Games gold, Olympic bronze, and World Championship bronze, in addition to top-eight Olympic finishes. His seamless transition to road racing is already paying off, with standout performances in the half-marathon and 15-kilometre road races, making him currently the seventh-fastest marathoner in the world.
As Kiplimo sets his sights on new challenges, his focus and humility continue to inspire a generation of Ugandan athletes eager to follow in his footsteps.
