World Athletics has refused to ratify Jacob Kiplimo’s men’s half-marathon world record, ruling that his historic run at last year’s Barcelona Half Marathon did not comply with competition rules.
Kiplimo, 24, crossed the line in 56 minutes 42 seconds, a performance that made him the first athlete in history to break the 57-minute barrier for the distance. The time was 48 seconds faster than the existing world record and was widely regarded as one of the most extraordinary road performances ever recorded.
But after reviewing race footage and reports, World Athletics concluded that the run involved illegal assistance.
Pace car ruled As illegal assistance
Broadcast footage showed Kiplimo running much of the race approximately 10 to 15 metres behind the lead pace car. Under Article 6.3.1 of World Athletics’ Technical Rules, athletes are not permitted to receive pacing assistance from individuals not competing in the race, or from technical devices other than a wearable.
World Athletics determined that Kiplimo’s proximity to the vehicle amounted to assistance, as drafting behind the car would have reduced air resistance. While the rules do not specify a minimum allowable distance between athletes and pace vehicles, officials ruled that the arrangement violated the spirit and intent of the regulations.
Additional reports suggested that Kiplimo may also have breached rules prohibiting athletes from receiving coaching advice during competition.
Record reverts to Yomif Kejelcha
As a result of the decision, Ethiopia’s Yomif Kejelcha remains the official men’s half-marathon world record holder with his time of 57:30, set at the 2024 Valencia Half Marathon.
World Athletics noted that Kiplimo’s performance will remain on the all-time performance lists and is not erased, as would be the case with a doping violation. However, it will not be recognized as the official world record.
Kiplimo and Kejelcha are both scheduled to compete at the 2026 TCS London Marathon on April 26, setting up a high-profile meeting between two of the fastest distance runners in history, now linked by one of the sport’s most contentious record decisions.
Absolute nonsense. They’ll throw this out but Ruth C’s doped Chicago time still counts? Total joke.
“While the rules do not specify a minimum allowable distance between athletes and pace vehicles, officials ruled that the arrangement violated the spirit and intent of the regulations.” So he’s supposed to pass the pace car and run in front of it? I don’t know what kind of coaching he supposedly received, but taking someone’s world record away because of violating some nebulous “spirit and intent” is garbage.