Uganda’s Jacob Kiplimo sets half marathon world record with 57.20 run in Lisbon

Ugandan long-distance runner Jacob Kiplimo set a new men’s half marathon world record after clocking 57:20 at the Lisbon Half Marathon.

The 24-year-old runner bettered the previous world record of 57.30, set by Yomif Kejelcha at the Valencia Half Marathon in 2024.

Kiplimo’s record-breaking run now stands as the fastest half marathon ever recorded, although it remains subject to official ratification by World Athletics.

The achievement comes a year after Kiplimo had clocked 56.42 at the Barcelona Half Marathon, becoming the first athlete to run the distance in under 57 minutes. However, that time was not ratified as a world record after World Athletics ruled that the race’s lead vehicle may have provided an aerodynamic advantage.

Following his latest performance in Lisbon, Kiplimo shared his joy in a post on Instagram.

“Lisbon you are always magic. Can’t be more than happy to break the world record here. My team 🇺🇬 was super, happy for my brother’s half marathon debut. People cheering me during the race have been very helpful. Thanks to everyone. Focus on the next,” he wrote.

Kiplimo’s historic run adds another milestone to his career and further cements his status among the world’s leading distance runners.