Kipchoge ends three-year marathon title drought with Melbourne victory
Kenyan running legend Eliud Kipchoge has returned to the top of the marathon podium, winning the Melbourne Marathon in Australia in 2:09:10 on Sunday.
The two-time Olympic champion, 41, secured his first marathon victory since Berlin in 2023, finishing just two seconds outside the Melbourne course record.
Kipchoge pulled away from the field in the final 10km before completing the race at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), following a route that included part of the Albert Park Formula One circuit.
“It was actually different – running on a beautiful course, but also running on the Formula One track, and above all else, finishing on a cricket ground,” he said.
The victory marks the third stop on Kipchoge’s ambitious World Tour, launched to raise funds for causes he supports. Announced in 2025, the project aims to see him run marathons on all seven continents, including Antarctica, within two years. Melbourne follows previous stops in South Africa and Brazil.
Kipchoge said he increased his pace after the 30km mark to test his form and challenge the course record, but slowed near the finish to acknowledge spectators.
“The oldest athlete is still competing, but I am happy to run with the Gen Zs,” he said.
Australia’s Thomas Do Canto finished second in 2:10:35, while compatriot Reece Edwards took third in 2:14:33.
In the women’s race, New Zealand’s Camille French claimed victory in 2:28:25. Australia’s Sinead Diver finished second in 2:28:49, followed by Ireland’s Nichola Sheridan in 2:29:13.
About The Author
