Ugandan Star Jacob Kiplimo Reclaims Men's Half Marathon World Record with Stunning 57:20 in Lisbon
On March 8, 2026, Uganda's Jacob Kiplimo made history once again by shattering the men's half marathon world record at the EDP Lisbon Half Marathon in Portugal.
The 25-year-old clocked an astonishing 57:20, improving by 10 seconds on the previous official mark of 57:30 set by Ethiopia's Yomif Kejelcha at the Valencia Half Marathon in October 2024. This performance, achieved on the same course where Kiplimo first claimed the record back in 2021 with 57:31, marks his triumphant return to the top of the all-time list. The race, a World Athletics Platinum Label event, saw Kiplimo dominate from the front, averaging roughly 2:43 per kilometer and demonstrating his exceptional pacing and endurance in ideal conditions.
This latest achievement comes after a period of frustration for Kiplimo. In February 2025, he ran an astonishing 56:42 at the Barcelona Half Marathon—the fastest half marathon ever recorded—but it was not ratified as a world record by World Athletics due to violations of pacing rules, reportedly involving assistance from a lead pace car or similar factors. Undeterred, Kiplimo returned to Lisbon, the site of his earlier success, with clear focus on reclaiming what he views as rightfully his. Post-race, he expressed immense joy, calling the city "magic" and thanking his team, the supportive crowds, and organizers for the opportunity. His victory also included strong showings from other East African athletes, with Kenya's Nicholas Kimeli finishing second in 58:04.
Kiplimo's dominance in road racing continues to solidify his status as one of the greatest distance runners of his generation. Already a three-time world cross-country champion and holder of impressive track credentials—including a national record marathon time from Chicago in 2025—he has now gone sub-58 minutes in the half marathon five times in his career. This record, pending final ratification, underscores the rapid evolution of the event and East Africa's continued supremacy in long-distance running. Fans and experts alike are now speculating on what lower barriers he might break next, potentially eyeing even faster times or success in the full marathon distance.
