Kenyan runner Sabastian Sawe has made history, becoming the first person to officially run a marathon in under two hours. He achieved this monumental feat at the 2026 London Marathon.
While Eliud Kipchoge previously recorded a sub-2-hour time in 2019, that run was not eligible for official record status due to pacing and fluid regulations. Sawe's performance in London adhered to all official rules, solidifying his place in athletic history.
Ethiopian athlete Yomif Kejelcha also achieved an impressive sub-two-hour time of 1:59:41, finishing as runner-up and coming within one second of Sawe's record.
Sawe set the record wearing Adidas Adizero Adios Pro Evo 3 running shoes. He commented after the race, "I am feeling good. I am so happy. It’s a day to remember for me."
Sabastian Sawe's marathon debut was in Valencia in 2024 with a time of 2:02:05. He expressed excitement upon seeing his record-breaking time at the finish line on April 26, 2026.