Eliud Kipchoge makes his first London appearance in five years on Sunday as he goes in search of a fifth title on The Mall.
But the great man knows he faces a monumental task to recapture the glories of his past triumphs.
Since securing the 2023 BMW BERLIN MARATHON title, Kipchoge has suffered a string of setbacks that saw him come eighth in Tokyo in early 2024 before dropping out of the Olympic Marathon in the summer.
“Last year was tough but sport is built on challenges,” he said. “It’s also built on dedication and patience. But the proof of good sport is how and when you recover. I’m ready to be on the roads on Sunday.”
Kipchoge’s 14-strong collection of Majors victories started 11 years ago at the Bank of America Chicago Marathon and catapulted him to iconic status in world sport. It has encompassed double Olympic gold and two wordl records, as well as his momentous 1:59 run in Vienna in 2019.
He was awarded the John Disley Lifetime Achievement award on Thursday to recognise his contributions to the sport over a career that is unlikely to be rivaled for a generation.
Now at the age of 40, he is surrounded by challengers looking to take his crown as the greatest.
He will be alongside a galaxy of endurance stars on Blackheath on Sunday, including the man who took his Olympic title in Paris, Tamirat Tola, and marathon newcomer
Jacob Kiplimo who is making his first foray into 26.2 miles after a glittering track career.
Last year’s London champion, Alex Mutiso, is also going to be on the start line, as is Sebastian Sawe. Sawe clocked 2:02:05 on his debut in Valencia and will be a huge threat in what look to be ideal conditions in the morning.
“Everyone knows it is the strongest field ever,” said Mutiso. “I cannot forget winning London. One thing I loved is the cheering crowd, it was a good motivation when the crowd was cheering at me. I will come here and try my best again.”
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