Sabastian Sawe Makes History: First Sub-2-Hour Marathon in London 2026

Kenya’s Sabastian Sawe crossed the finish line at the 2026 London Marathon in 1 hour, 59 minutes, and 30 seconds on April 26, 2026, becoming the first man in history to break the two-hour barrier in a marathon.

The 30-year-old Kenyan shattered the previous world record by 65 seconds, surpassing the time set by Kelvin Kiptum in 2023. Sawe’s historic achievement was captured as he completed the 26.2-mile course on the Mall in central London.

“I am feeling good, I am so happy. It is a day to remember.”

Sawe was not alone in rewriting the record books. Ethiopia’s Yomif Kejelcha finished just 11 seconds behind in second place, while Uganda’s Jacob Kiplimi completed the race in 2:00:28—still faster than Kiptum’s former record. The trio dominated the race from the halfway mark, with Sawe and Kejelcha pulling away from the rest of the field.

The conditions were ideal for record-breaking performances. Starting temperatures in the low 50s°F and a strong tailwind over the final miles created a perfect environment for speed. Sawe, who finished the second half of the race in 59:01, surged ahead in the final stretch to secure his place in history.

“I think I was well-prepared because coming to London for the second time was so important to me. And that’s why I prepared well for it. And finally, what I had done for four months, it has come today to be a good result.”

Sawe’s victory was not the only milestone at the 2026 London Marathon. In the women’s race, Ethiopia’s Tigst Assefa claimed the title in 2:15:41, out-sprinting Kenya’s Hellen Obiri and Ethiopia’s Joyciline Jepkosgei by 12 seconds each to finish second and third, respectively.