Brief

Eliud Kipchoge wins Melbourne Marathon in 2:09.08, sets race record

The 42‑year‑old Kenyan posted a 2:09.08 time, praised Melbourne fans and highlighted the city's multi‑sport venue.

By Felo News Desk · Published Sun, 11 Oct 2026 12:56:24 GMT

Eliud Kipchoge, the 42‑year‑old Kenyan who has twice held the marathon world record and won two Olympic gold medals, secured his first marathon victory in three years at the 2026 Melbourne Marathon, finishing in 2:09.08 – a new race record for the event.

Kipchoge entered the race as part of a planned “seven marathons on seven continents” world tour, with Melbourne representing Oceania. The field was not as deep as his 2023 Berlin win, but his time eclipsed the previous Melbourne Marathon best. He broke away from a lead pack that included former pro cyclist Jimmy Webster around the 20‑kilometre mark, extending a 30‑second gap by the 30‑kilometre point. Webster faded after 32 kilometres, while Kipchoge briefly slowed due to an abdominal issue before resuming his pace.

Crossing the finish line inside the Melbourne Cricket Ground, Kipchoge was greeted by thousands of spectators, fireworks, and a ribbon held by Jess Hull and Cam Myers. He later told reporters, “I want to celebrate with the people of Melbourne… sport is about crossing the finishing line and coming together.” He added that, despite his age, his body remains “good” and he enjoys running alongside younger athletes.

Tom De Canto finished second, 1:26 behind Kipchoge, while New Zealand’s Camille French won the women’s race in 2:28.25, just 23 seconds ahead of the runner‑up.

Kipchoge praised Melbourne as a “sporting city,” noting the marathon’s route began near the tennis centre, passed the Formula 1 track and finished at the historic cricket ground that hosted the 1956 Olympics. He said he would return to watch tennis and Formula 1 in the future, calling the MCG “the best track ever.”

Key facts

Eliud Kipchoge won the 2026 Melbourne Marathon in 2:09.08, setting a new race record. (smh.com.au)
Kipchoge’s victory was his first marathon win since Berlin 2023. (smh.com.au)
Tom De Canto finished second, 1:26 behind Kipchoge. (smh.com.au)
Camille French won the women’s marathon in 2:28.25. (smh.com.au)
Kipchoge praised Melbourne’s multi‑sport venue, saying it was the best track ever. (smh.com.au)