Eliud Kipchoge Triumphs in Melbourne to Claim First Marathon Victory in Three Years

Two-time Olympic champion Eliud Kipchoge has secured his first marathon victory in three years, delivering a dominant performance to win the 2026 Melbourne Marathon in Australia on October 11, 2026.

Crossing the finish line in 2 hours, 9 minutes and 10 seconds, the Kenyan great finished just two seconds under the race record. This triumph marks his first win over the distance since Berlin in 2023 and forms part of his ongoing “World Tour” dedicated to raising funds for charitable causes.

The 41-year-old former world record-holder previously announced in 2025 his ambition to complete marathons across all seven continents, including Antarctica, over a two-year span. Melbourne served as the third stop of the tour, following events in South Africa and Brazil. Kipchoge broke away from the pack within the final 10km of a course that partially incorporated the Australian Formula One track at Albert Park before concluding inside the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).

Reflecting on the race, Kipchoge expressed his appreciation for the atmosphere, noting how much he enjoyed the cheering crowds. Although he eased his pace slightly near the finish to wave to fans, he remained confident in his physical condition. “I believe that my body is still peaking – still able to compete with the next generation,” he stated, noting that his strategy to accelerate the pace after the 30km mark successfully led him to the finish line.

In the men's competition, Australian Thomas Do Canto finished second with a time of 2:10:35, while compatriot Reece Edwards placed third at 2:14:33. Meanwhile, New Zealand’s Camille French claimed victory in the women's race with a time of 2:28:25, followed by Australian Sinead Diver at 2:28:49 and Nichola Sheridan of Ireland at 2:29:13.