Ugandan long-distance runner Jacob Kiplimo has been honoured at the 78th edition of the Mundo Deportivo Grand Gala, held on Monday, February 2, in Barcelona, Spain.
Kiplimo received the award in recognition of his victory at the 2025 Chicago Marathon, where he clocked 2 hours, 02 minutes and 23 seconds to become the first Ugandan athlete to win the event. The race took place in October last year in Illinois, United States of America.
The Mundo Deportivo awards ceremony is one of Europe’s biggest sports galas, celebrating excellence across athletics, football, and music. Kiplimo’s recognition comes in a year in which he also broke the half-marathon world record, further underlining his position among the world’s elite long-distance runners.
Speaking after receiving the award, Kiplimo dedicated the honour to his country and said the recognition would drive him forward.
“I’m grateful to the organisers for this recognition, this motivates me to keep pushing and representing my country at the highest level”, says Kiplimo.
Looking ahead, the 24-year-old confirmed his focus is now on upcoming major races, with the London Marathon in April identified as his main target for the year.
