London Marathon: Sawe Edges Out Star-Studded Field

Sabastian Sawe delivers a stunning performance to win the men's London Marathon, crossing the finish line in 2:02:27. Get the highlights and reaction.

Sabastian Sawe delivered a stunning performance to claim victory in the men's London Marathon, crossing the finish line in an impressive 2:02:27. This win marks a significant milestone for the 29-year-old Kenyan, who had previously triumphed in the Valencia Marathon last December with a blistering time of 2:02:05.

Sawe's strategy paid off as he broke away from the pack after 30 kilometers, skipping his drink at the Canary Wharf station to unleash a devastating surge. He covered the 30-35k split in 13:56 and 30-40k in 28:16, showcasing his remarkable endurance. This decisive move left his competitors, including Jacob Kiplimo and Eliud Kipchoge, struggling to keep pace.

Top Finishers:

• 1st Place: Sabastian Sawe (Kenya) - 2:02:27
• 2nd Place: Jacob Kiplimo (Uganda) - 2:03:37 (new Ugandan national record)
• 3rd Place: Alexander Mutiso Munyao (Kenya) - 2:04:20

Sawe's victory positions him as a strong contender for future marathon titles, potentially succeeding legends like Eliud Kipchoge and Kelvin Kiptum. His coach, Claudio Berardelli, praised Sawe's exceptional talent, drawing comparisons to other marathon greats.

Alexander Mutiso Munyao secured third place in a thrilling photo finish, narrowly edging Abdi Nageeye. Meanwhile, four-time champion Eliud Kipchoge finished sixth.

Sabastian Sawe expressed his joy after the win, saying, “I am very happy to have won a major marathon.” This victory follows his success in the Valencia marathon last December, where he posted an impressive time. Sawe's recent performances solidify his position as a top contender in the marathon world.

“I was well prepared for this, that is why I was so relaxed and confident.

“Now this gives me hope that further success in marathons will come.”

At the halfway point, the leading pack, featuring Eliud Kipchoge, Olympic champion Tamirat Tola, and Jacob Kiplimo, was on pace to break the world record with a blistering time of 1:01:30. However, Kipchoge struggled to keep up and was dropped from the group as they approached the 30-kilometer mark.

On another level 😤

🇰🇪‘s Sabastian Sawe wins the TCS London Marathon with a strong 2:02:27 in hot conditions 🥵

The Kenyan keeps a perfect scorecard after his debut victory in Valencia 👏#londonmarathon2025 pic.twitter.com/0sw3sgw3Zm

— World Athletics (@WorldAthletics) April 27, 2025

The decisive moment came at the drinks station shortly after, where Sabastian Sawe made a bold move. Unlike his competitors, Sawe chose not to take a drink, using the opportunity to surge ahead and gain a crucial advantage that would ultimately secure his victory.

Jacob Kiplimo found himself unexpectedly caught behind the group but made a determined effort to push through. Despite his efforts, he couldn't catch Sabastian Sawe, who had already surged ahead.

Sawe cruised to the finish line with ease, looking fresh and composed as he crossed the winner's tape on The Mall, with Buckingham Palace as a backdrop. His confident performance secured his victory in the men's London Marathon.