LISBON, Portugal — Ugandan long-distance runner Jacob Kiplimo delivered a historic performance on Sunday, smashing the men’s half-marathon world record with a time of 57 minutes and 20 seconds at the Lisbon Half Marathon.
The 25-year-old distance star stormed to victory on the fast Lisbon course, becoming the fastest man ever over the 21-kilometre distance and reaffirming Uganda’s dominance in global distance running.
Kiplimo’s remarkable run improved on the previous world record of 57:30 set by Ethiopia’s Yomif Kejelcha in Valencia in 2024, cutting 10 seconds off the mark. According to international media reports, the Ugandan surged away from the leading pack in the latter stages of the race to secure the record in emphatic style.
Lisbon has proven to be a happy hunting ground for the Ugandan athlete. In 2021, Kiplimo also set the world record on the same course with a time of 57:31, which stood for several years before being broken in 2024.
In Sunday’s race, Kenya’s Nicholas Kipkorir finished second in 58:08, while fellow Kenyan Gilbert Kiprotich came third in 58:59, as Kiplimo crossed the finish line alone to thunderous applause from spectators.
Kiplimo, a former World Cross Country champion and Olympic bronze medallist, has been one of the most consistent distance runners in the world over the past few years. His latest achievement adds another milestone to an already glittering career and provides yet another moment of pride for Uganda’s athletics community.
The record-breaking run further cements Uganda’s growing reputation as a global powerhouse in distance running, following the achievements of athletes such as Olympic and world champion Joshua Cheptegei.
Athletics officials and fans in Uganda have since hailed Kiplimo’s performance as a major boost for the country’s sporting profile on the international stage.
Top three results – Lisbon Half Marathon:
1. Jacob Kiplimo (Uganda) – 57:20 (World Record)
2. Nicholas Kipkorir (Kenya) – 58:08
3. Gilbert Kiprotich (Kenya) – 58:59
