JOHANNESBURG – Kenyan world record holder Eliud Kipchoge has come out in support of the decision to postpone the London Marathon due to the spread of Covid-19.
The race was scheduled for April 26 and is now set to be held on October 4, with Kipchoge the favourite to win the men’s race.
“It is unfortunate news that the London Marathon has been postponed but I fully respect the decision made by the organization as safeguarding the health of the world always takes our top priority.”
“To the thousands of runners who with me, have devoted the last months of our lives towards this goal I would like to say: Be proud of the work you have put into this journey, keep smiling and seek your next goal on the horizon to continue running in a smooth and positive way. I hope to share the starting line with you again soon,” he added.
Kenya's Eliud Kipchoge crosses the finish line at the 2019 London Marathon. Photo: twitter.com/EliudKipchoge
Kipchoge’s participation in the London Marathon had already been in doubt since last week, when the Kenyan Ministry of Sports issued a travel ban for all its athletes.