Uganda’s preparations for the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo have suffered a major setback after Joshua Cheptegei and Jacob Kiplimo confirmed they will not compete at the event, which runs from September 13 to 21.
The news comes just days after Cheptegei pulled out of the Antrim Coast Half Marathon due to illness.
His withdrawal from Tokyo, alongside fellow star Kiplimo, is a double blow for Uganda, which has relied heavily on the pair for medals on the world stage.
Cheptegei is the reigning Olympic 10,000m champion and world record holder over 5,000m and 10,000m.
Kiplimo is the reigning World Half Marathon champion and has consistently battled Cheptegei for global dominance in distance running.
Between them, the duo have spearheaded Uganda’s rise as a force in athletics over the past five years.
In a brief statement, Uganda Athletics Federation asked the public to respect the privacy of both athletes, citing personal reasons for their absence. No further details were given.
Their withdrawal leaves a significant gap in Uganda’s medal hopes, particularly in the long-distance track events where the country has enjoyed its greatest success.
The final squad for Team Uganda is expected to be named in the coming days.
