Kampala, Uganda – Star Ugandan distance runner Jacob Kiplimo will return to Barcelona to defend his title at the 2026 Barcelona Half Marathon, Uganda Athletics has confirmed. The announcement comes shortly after Kiplimo’s impressive victory at the World Athletics Cross Country Championships in Florida, where he secured his third consecutive gold medal in the men’s senior race. Kiplimo’s participation in the half marathon is particularly noteworthy as he currently holds the world record in the event.
The race is scheduled for February 15, 2026, and will also feature Kiplimo’s compatriot, Ezekiel Mutai. Uganda Athletics President Dominic Otuchet confirmed both athletes’ entries to Xinhua on Tuesday, highlighting the significance of Kiplimo’s return to the course where he achieved his record-breaking time.
Kiplimo Aims to Replicate Record-Breaking Performance in Barcelona
Kiplimo set the current men’s half marathon world record in Barcelona in 2025, finishing the race in an astonishing 56 minutes and 42 seconds. This achievement cemented his position as a leading figure in long-distance running and generated considerable excitement within the athletics community. His success in Barcelona followed a strong showing at the 2024 Chicago Marathon, which he also won.
The Barcelona Half Marathon has become a prominent event on the international running calendar, known for its fast course and competitive field. The race attracts elite athletes seeking to challenge themselves and potentially set new personal bests. It also provides a platform for emerging talents to gain exposure.
Early Career and Rise to Prominence
Kiplimo’s athletic journey began at a young age, and he quickly demonstrated exceptional talent. He made history as Uganda’s youngest Olympian, competing in the 2016 Rio Games at just 15 years old. He further showcased his potential by winning the under-20 title at the World Cross Country Championships in 2017, signaling a bright future in the sport.
His consistent performance across various distances, including cross country, road racing, and marathons, demonstrates his versatility and dedication. Analysts note that Kiplimo’s training regimen, combined with his natural ability, has been instrumental in his success. This has positioned him as a key athlete to watch in upcoming major competitions, including the Olympics.
The women’s half marathon world record remains with Ethiopia’s Letesenbet Gidey, who clocked 1:02:52 at the Valencia Half Marathon in 2021. While Kiplimo will focus on the men’s race, the Barcelona event consistently draws top female competitors aiming to challenge Gidey’s mark.
The Ugandan team’s participation in Barcelona is part of a broader strategy by Uganda Athletics to support its athletes in their pursuit of international success. This includes providing access to high-quality training facilities and competitive opportunities. The organization is also focused on developing the next generation of Ugandan runners.
Looking ahead, Kiplimo’s training will be crucial as he prepares to defend his title and potentially lower his own world record. The focus will likely be on maintaining his current fitness level and refining his race strategy. The performance of other elite athletes at the event will also be a factor, potentially pushing Kiplimo to even greater heights. The final athlete roster and specific course details for the 2026 Barcelona Half Marathon are expected to be released in the coming months, and observers will be watching for any potential challengers to Kiplimo’s dominance in the marathon event.
Additionally, the performance of Ezekiel Mutai will be closely monitored, as he represents another strong contender from Uganda in the long-distance running scene. His participation alongside Kiplimo underscores the growing strength of Ugandan athletics on the global stage.
The success of Ugandan athletes like Kiplimo and Mutai is also expected to inspire greater participation in running within the country, fostering a new generation of talent. This positive trend could further solidify Uganda’s reputation as a powerhouse in long-distance running.