Kiplimo fades late as Kipruto claims Chicago Marathon crown

Jacob Kiplimo

Uganda’s Jacob Kiplimo missed out on a podium finish at the 2026 Chicago Marathon after a challenging final stretch saw him surrender his title to Kenya’s Amos Kipruto, who produced a remarkable performance to win the race.

Kipruto crossed the finish line in an unofficial time of 2:01:09, a personal best that elevated him to joint fifth on the all-time marathon list alongside compatriot Eliud Kipchoge. Kiplimo, who had won the race in 2025, finished fourth in 2:04:18.

Ethiopia’s Tadese Bikila took second place in 2:02:56, while compatriot Milkesa Mengesha completed the podium in 2:03:46.

For Kiplimo, the result was a disappointing end to what had been an outstanding year on the roads. The Ugandan had arrived in Chicago in excellent form, having won the World Cross Country Championships in January, set a half-marathon world record in March and clocked an impressive 2:00:28 at the London Marathon in April.

However, the Chicago streets presented a different challenge, as the 25-year-old struggled to maintain his pace in the closing kilometres.

For much of the race, Kiplimo looked capable of defending his title. He remained among the leading runners and was particularly impressive between the 20km and 30km marks, covering that section in 28 minutes and 18 seconds.

The blistering split demonstrated his determination to break away from his challengers, but it also demanded a great deal of energy.

By mile 22, Kiplimo was in second place and closing in on the leader, with the possibility of another Chicago victory still very much alive.

Kipruto, however, remained composed and refused to be shaken by the Ugandan’s challenge. Rather than forcing the pace too early, the Kenyan stayed within reach before making his decisive move over the final 10 kilometres.

As Kiplimo began to lose ground, Kipruto found another gear and steadily pulled away to secure the victory.

Kiplimo’s closing miles proved costly. After remaining on course for a time around two hours and 35 seconds at mile 21, he faded significantly, eventually settling for fourth place.

It was the first time in his road-racing career that he had finished outside the top three, underlining the consistency that has characterised his performances over the years.

While Kiplimo’s challenge faded, Kipruto’s patience and experience carried him to one of the biggest victories of his career.

Tadese Bikila, Amos Kipruto and Milkesa Mengesha

The 34-year-old Kenyan had steadily improved his position at Chicago over the previous two editions, finishing third in 2024 before taking second place in 2025. This time, he completed the progression by claiming the title.

His victory also marked his second major marathon triumph, following his London Marathon success in 2022. His winning time of 2:01:09, a personal best that placed him among the fastest marathon runners in history.

For Kiplimo, it was a rare difficult day in an otherwise outstanding season. And while the defending champion leaves Chicago without a medal, his previous achievements suggest that he will remain a serious contender whenever he returns to the marathon start line.

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