Eliud Kipchoge Missing In World Championships List, Reason Revealed

Eliud Kipchoge’s name was missing from the list—and not by mistake. The marathon legend has opted out of this year’s World Championships, a decision that’s stirring quiet unease and heavy speculation within Kenya’s athletic circles.

Athletics Kenya’s Youth and Development director Barnaba Korir confirmed the move, revealing Kipchoge’s decision was voluntary. “We asked Kipchoge if he would participate, but he said he would prefer someone else to go this time round,” said Korir. He added that Kipchoge’s global presence inspires young athletes, but the legend felt it was time to give others a chance.

This comes months after Kipchoge’s controversial inclusion in the Paris Olympics, where critics questioned his form. While he’s never favoured the World Championships—last running in the 2011 edition in Daegu—his absence now feels different, possibly signalling the beginning of his competitive wind-down.

Korir further disclosed that several top athletes are also bypassing the World Championships to focus on marathon majors like Berlin, Chicago, and New York. He confirmed that team selection will now rely on performance and athlete availability, with no guaranteed spots.

Trials for other categories are set for Tuesday at Ulinzi Sports Complex. Only invited runners who passed out-of-competition anti-doping tests will compete. Edwin Kurgat and Ishmael Kipkurui already secured spots in the 10,000m, while Beatrice Chebet and Agnes Ng’etich will represent Kenya in the 5,000m.

Still, Kipchoge’s quiet withdrawal raises questions. Is this just a tactical pause, or the start of a graceful exit from major events? With no formal retirement announced, speculation grows whether Kenya’s greatest marathoner is preparing for one final race—or fading from the global stage silently.