The double Olympic champion opened up about the torment of facing baseless accusations and online abuse following the tragic death of fellow Kenyan athlete Kelvin Kiptum. In an exclusive interview with BBC Sport Africa, Kipchoge recounts the distressing ordeal and its profound impact on his life and career.
The late Kelvin Kiptum and double world record holder Faith Kipyegon emerged as the shining stars of the 20th edition of the Sports Personality of the Year Awards (SOYA) Gala. Kiptum, honored posthumously after his tragic passing in a road accident last month, was recognized for his outstanding achievements, including breaking the Chicago Marathon record with a staggering time of 2:00:35.
Kiptum is set to be laid to rest later today at his farm in Naiberi, Uasin Gishu County.
Kiptum died on February 11, 2024, after he lost control while driving his Toyota Premio from Eldoret towards Ravine.
Kiptum's coffin was carried in a hearse through the streets of Eldoret town with some people singing and others holding burning candles.
He said the nature of the injuries matched that of a motor vehicle accident and that samples had been picked for further analysis.
Athletics Kenya announced the change via X on Tuesday, saying its offices will be closed on Thursday and Friday in Kiptum's honour.
Kiptum will be buried on Saturday next week at his home in Chepkorio.
Athletics Kenya says the cancellation is in honour of World Marathon record holder who passed on recently in tragic road accident
The death of Kiptum, favourite for the marathon at the Paris Olympics later this year, has shocked Kenya and the world of athletics.
The marathoner died on Sunday night following an accident at Kaptagat Forest along Eldoret -Ravine road.
The athlete drove in the ditch for about 60 metres before hitting a big tree.
Among them are Agnes Tirop, Samuel Wanjiru, Nicholas Bett and Richard Chelimo.
Kiptum had only recently announced he was hoping to smash the mythic two-hour mark in Rotterdam in April.
Kiptum’s coach Gervais Hakizimana, who was in the car with the Kenyan distance runner, also died in the accident along Eldoret-Kaptagat Road.
Notable Kenyans on the list of the most influential Africans include James Mwangi, CEO of Equity Bank (in the business category), celebrity chef Ali Mandhry, filmmaker Wanuri Kaihiu, environmentalist Wanjira Mathai and historian Chao Maina.
Other athletes who were honoured by the President include the World Marathon record holder Kelvin Kiptum, 100m African Champion Ferdinand Omanyala, 800m world champion Mary Moraa and 3000m steeplechase bronze medalist Faith Cherotich.
Ruto described Kipyegon as "an incredible human being, a true champion and a once-in-a-lifetime talent".
