Clash of Titans: Can Jacob Kiplimo stop Eliud Kipchoge from claiming fifth London Marathon title

Marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge faces rising star Jacob Kiplimo in a historic battle at the 2025 London Marathon. Image source: Imago

Clash of Titans: Can Jacob Kiplimo stop Eliud Kipchoge from claiming fifth London Marathon title

Abigael Wafula 07:45 - 04.02.2025

The ultimate showdown is set! Marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge faces rising star Jacob Kiplimo in a historic battle at the 2025 London Marathon. Who will reign supreme?

On April 27, 2025, the streets of London will witness a historic clash between two titans of long-distance running.

Eliud Kipchoge, the marathon king, and Jacob Kiplimo, the prodigious talent making his much-anticipated marathon debut will toe the line in the streets of the English capital.

This encounter is a thrilling competition and a symbolic passing of the torch in the world of distance running.

Eliud Kipchoge: The Marathon King

Can Jacob Kiplimo stop Eliud Kipchoge from claiming fifth London Marathon title
Eliud Kipchoge wins the 2018 Berlin Marathon Image source: Imago

When you hear the name Eliud Kipchoge, it is very synonymous with marathon excellence. At 40, the Kenyan legend boasts of an unparalleled record.

He is a four-time London Marathon champion (2015, 2016, 2018, 2019), two-time Olympic gold medallist (2016, 2020), and the first human to run a marathon distance in under two hours.

Kipchoge is also a five-time Berlin Marathon champion and also held the marathon world record since 2018 until 2023.

Eliud Kipchoge’s return to the London Marathon after a five-year hiatus is highly anticipated and of course, he is excited to be back, chasing his fifth title.

Jacob Kiplimo: The Rising Star

Can Jacob Kiplimo stop Eliud Kipchoge from claiming fifth London Marathon title
Jacob Kiplimo wins the senior men's race at the World Cross Country Championships, in WM, Weltmeisterschaft in cross-country, park Usce Belgrade. Image source: Imago

At 24, Uganda's Jacob Kiplimo has already established himself as a formidable force in long-distance running.

He has several titles to his name including two World Cross Country titles and has clinched Olympic and World Championship medals over 10,000m on the track. He has the 15 km world record to his name and is a former half marathon world record holder.

Kiplimo's decision to debut in the marathon in London speaks volumes about his ambition. Following his tons of achievements in the short distances and the track, he wants to get into another territory and hopefully dominate.

The Anticipated Showdown

The 2025 London Marathon has assembled one of the most competitive fields in its history and alongside Eliud Kipchoge and Jacob Kiplimo, the lineup includes defending champion Alexander Mutiso.

Reigning Olympic champion Tamirat Tola, the man who dethroned Eliud Kipchoge will also be in the mix.

World half-marathon champion Sabastian Sawe, who recently clocked 2:02:05 in his marathon debut in Valencia has also been confirmed for the London Marathon.

Kipchoge's experience and tactical acumen will be pitted against Kiplimo's youthful vigour and track speed.

While Kipchoge will be aiming to secure his fifth London Marathon title, Jacob Kiplimo seeks to make a statement in his marathon debut.

Historical Context and Legacy

Can Jacob Kiplimo stop Eliud Kipchoge from claiming fifth London Marathon title
Eliud Kipchoge wins the 2022 Tokyo Marathon Image source: Imago

Kipchoge's dominance in marathon running has been nothing short of extraordinary and a fifth London Marathon victory would further cement his legacy.

On the other hand, Kiplimo represents the new generation of runners eager to etch their names in history and a victory in London would herald the beginning of a new era in distance running.

Challenges and Considerations

The London Marathon course, renowned for its twists, turns, and unpredictable weather, presents unique challenges.

Eliud Kipchoge's familiarity with the course could offer him an advantage, but Kiplimo's adaptability and racing instincts cannot be underestimated.

Whether Kipchoge's experience will prevail or Kiplimo's youthful exuberance will triumph remains a mystery to be achieved on race day. However, one thing is certain: this is a marathon for the ages.