In a breathtaking display of power, pace, and poise, Kenya’s Sabastian Sawe stormed to victory in the 2025 London Marathon men’s elite race, stopping the clock at a staggering 2:02:27 the third-fastest time in the event’s storied history.
The 30-year-old Kenyan made his move in the final 10 kilometers, surging past a stacked field of world-class competitors and never looking back.
Running smooth and strong through the streets of the British capital, Sawe’s performance sent a clear message: there’s a new king in the marathon world.
“It’s a dream come true,” Sawe said moments after crossing the iconic finish line on The Mall, a Kenyan flag draped over his shoulders.
“I came here to make history, and today, London witnessed my best.”
Trailing him was Uganda’s Jacob Kiplimo, who delivered a gutsy run of 2:03:37 in his marathon debut.
The world half-marathon champion proved he’s got the engine for 42.2km, hanging with Sawe until the late stages before the Kenyan pulled away with a blistering kick.
Ethiopia’s Tamirat Tola rounded out the podium in 2:04:42, while Kenyan teammate Alexander Mutiso Munyao and Dutch record-holder Abdi Nageeye both clocked 2:04:20, finishing in a dramatic sprint for fourth and fifth respectively.
But perhaps the biggest surprise came from marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge, who finished sixth in 2:05:25.
The two-time Olympic champion and world record-holder looked slightly off rhythm, conceding the lead group after 30km, sparking fresh debate about the shifting tides in distance running.
