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Sabastian Sawe has officially been recognised by Guinness World Records after his groundbreaking marathon performance that redefined endurance running.
In a statement, the records body confirmed Sawe’s achievement, highlighting his stunning time of 1:59:30, which now stands as the fastest men’s marathon ever recorded. His performance has cemented his place in history as the first athlete to break the two-hour barrier in an officially sanctioned race held on the streets of London.
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Sawe finished more than a minute ahead of the previous world record of 2:00:35 set by the late Kelvin Kiptum at the 2023 Chicago Marathon. Guinness World Records also noted that his time surpassed earlier benchmark performances, including those of marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge.
“Couldn’t catch him! Congratulations to Sebastian Sawe on his fastest marathon (male) at 1:59:30,” Guinness World Records stated, celebrating the milestone achievement.
The historic race saw Sawe break away decisively in the closing stages, producing a powerful finishing surge to secure victory. Ethiopia’s Yomif Kejelcha finished second in 1:59:41, while Uganda’s Jacob Kiplimo took third in 2:00:28.
READ ALSO: Kenyan Sabastian Sawe Smashes Sub-2 Marathon Barrier
Born in 1996, Sawe’s rise in marathon running has been rapid. Raised in a remote Kenyan highland village without electricity, he trained in high-altitude camps in western Kenya, often living modestly while pursuing his athletic career. His journey was shaped by family support and mentorship, including guidance from relatives and teachers who encouraged him to pursue running as a path to success.
He announced himself on the global stage with a stunning debut win at the 2024 Valencia Marathon in 2:02:05, followed by victories in London and Berlin marathons in 2025, consistently establishing himself among the world’s elite long-distance runners.
Ahead of his Berlin campaign, Sawe also underwent extensive out-of-competition testing by the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU), reflecting heightened scrutiny in athletics.
Following his London triumph, President William Ruto praised Sawe’s achievement, calling it a defining moment in global sport and a powerful demonstration of human endurance at its peak.
