Joshua Cheptegei’s world records in the 5,000m and 10,000m will be under scrutiny at the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, as the Ugandan distance legend shifts his attention to the men’s marathon.
Cheptegei, who announced his retirement from track events following last year’s Paris Olympics, will not be competing in the 5,000m or 10,000m races he once dominated.
Although eligible for a wildcard entry in the 10,000m as the world record holder, he has opted to pursue marathon glory instead.
This marks a significant transition for the Ugandan long-distance icon, who holds the world records in the 5,000m (12:35.36) and 10,000m (26:11.00), both set in 2020.
With his absence from the track, the Tokyo Championships could see serious attempts to dethrone his long-standing marks, with rising talents and Olympic medalists eyeing the podium.
Cheptegei’s move to the marathon signifies the start of a new chapter in his career, but also the end of an era on the track.
As he tests himself over 42.195 kilometres, attention will turn to whether his historic records can withstand the challenge or if Tokyo will crown a new record-holder in his wake.
