Jacob Kiplimo Leads Uganda at World Cross Country Championships as He Chases Historic Third Title

Two-time defending champion Jacob Kiplimo is set to lead a formidable Ugandan team at the World Athletics Cross Country Championships in Tallahassee on January 10, 2026.

Jacob Kiplimo, who has a decorated history in the event, will be aiming for an unprecedented third consecutive senior men's title.

His journey to the top began with a U20 gold on home soil in Kampala in 2017, followed by senior victories in Bathurst in 2023 and Belgrade in 2024.

In preparation for his title defence, Jacob Kiplimo shared a video of his training on Instagram, hinting at his readiness.

He will not have an easy run in Florida as Team Kenya, led by former world 10,000m silver medallist Daniel Simiu, who will be out to make a mark and reclaim the country’s lost glory.

The last time a Kenyan won the senior men’s title was at the 2017 World Athletics Cross Country Championships, courtesy of Geoffrey Kamworor.

“@worldxcchampionships one week to go. See you in Florida. Let’s go,” Jacob Kiplimo shared.

Meanwhile, joining Jacob Kiplimo in the quest for glory in the senior men's race are teammates Dolphine Chelimo, Dan Kibet, Emmanuel Kibet, Keneth Kiprop, and Deogracius Musobo.

The senior women's squad is also packed with talent, featuring Sarah Chelangat, who secured a strong fifth-place finish in Belgrade.

She will be accompanied by Joy Cheptoyek, a finalist in the 10,000m at the Tokyo Olympics, where she finished seventh.

In the junior ranks, the U20 women's team includes Charity Cherop, the bronze medallist in the 5000m at the World U20 Championships, highlighting the depth of Uganda's emerging talent.

Senior Women: Sarah Chelangat, Rebecca Chelangat, Kereen Chemusto, Martha Chemutai, Joy Cheptoyek, Rispa Cherop

Senior Men: Dolphine Chelimo, Dan Kibet, Emmanuel Kibet, Jacob Kiplimo, Keneth Kiprop, Deogracius Musobo

U20 Women: Peace Chebet, Felister Chekwemoi, Nancy Chepkwurui, Charity Cherop, Bentalin Yeko U20 Men: Solomon Andiema, Daniel Kiprotich Chelogoi, Abraham Cherotich, Dan Kipyeko, Jeremiah Kwemoi

Mixed Relay: Brenda Chekwemoi, Sylvia Chelangat, Silas Chemutai, Daniel Comboni