London Marathon winner set for huge payday after breaking sub-two-hour mark

Lewis Henderson
Sun, 26 Apr 2026 19:02:11 +0000

London Marathon winner Sabastian Sawe is set for a huge payday after breaking the sub-two-hour mark.

The Kenyan became the first athlete to break the two-hour barrier in an official competition, winning the London Marathon in a world record of 1:59:30.

Sawe, who ran in Adidas Adizero Adios Pro Evo Three, is expected to earn over $1million (£741,000) in contractual bonuses following his historic achievement.

The world record holder showed off his shoes when he completed the run, with his time written on the side.

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Following his win, Sawe said: "I think I've made history today in London, and for the new generation (it shows) to run a record is possible.

"It depends on the preparation you had and the discipline you had, so for me I think I have shown them that nothing is impossible. Everything is possible with a matter of time.

"I was ready today. I was well-prepared for the London Marathon and for today's results.

"I'm so happy because I had a lot of courage to push, even when the pace was fast."

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The record-breaker continued: "It's something not to be forgotten, something to be remembered, and it will remain in my mind forever."

London Marathon Events CEO Hugh Brasher said: "It is, without doubt, the greatest day in London Marathon history.

"People said that Sir Roger Bannister's mile was the greatest sporting moment of the 20th century.

"Is this the greatest sporting moment of the 21st century? I don't know, but it was just brilliant."

Tigst Assefa also broke the women's world record with a time of 2:15:41.

Assefa exceeded the standard she set by winning last year in London, finding her final kick near Buckingham Palace.

She said: "Today's competition was very special because of the way I finished.

"I've been working on my speed, and today I showed how fast I could finish, and that's why today was a very special win for me.

"When I finished the race and found out Sabastian had broken the world record and gone under two hours I was so, so happy for him.

"To break world records requires a lot of work, and I want to congratulate him on his wonderful achievement."

Eliud Kipchoge offered his own congratulations to both Sawe and Kejelcha, hailing a "historical day for marathon running".

In a post on Instagram, he said: "Breaking the sub-two barrier in the marathon has long been a dream for runners everywhere, and today, you've made that dream come true."