Ugandan long-distance icon Joshua Cheptegei has, through his team NN Running Team, officially announced his participation in the 2025 Tokyo Marathon, scheduled for March 2.
The race will mark a significant transition for the reigning 10,000m world champion as he shifts focus from track dominance to road racing.
Cheptegei’s decision to compete in the Tokyo Marathon highlights his ambitions to conquer new challenges in the world of marathon running.
The Tokyo Marathon, a part of the Abbott World Marathon Majors, is known for its fast, flat course and attracts elite athletes from across the globe.
Having previously showcased his brilliance in Tokyo by clinching gold in the 5,000m at the 2021 Olympics, Cheptegei is no stranger to success in Japan’s capital.
His familiarity with the city and its vibrant running culture could provide an additional boost as he navigates the marathon course.
The Tokyo Marathon route begins at the iconic Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building in Shinjuku and winds through historic and modern landmarks, including the Ginza shopping district and the Tokyo Tower, before finishing at Tokyo Station.
Cheptegei will be up against the course record of 2:02:16, set by Kenya’s Benson Kipruto in 2024.
