Sabastian Sawe received a massive welcome in Kenya after his stellar performance at the 2026 London Marathon. He delivered an historic run, clocking a world record.
On Saturday, April 26, Sawe ran at the London Marathon, where he produced a notable performance, securing a historic victory and becoming the first athlete to run a sub-two-hour marathon in official legal race conditions. He finished with a world-record time of 1:59:20, shattering the previous work of 2:00:35 set by Kelvin Kiptum in 2023. He bested Yomif Kejelcha and Jacob Kiplimo, who claimed second and third places, respectively.
Shortly after this feat, he recently returned to Kenya, where he received a hero’s welcome by the government, as President William Ruto gifted him 8 million Kenyan shillings, which is $62,000, and a new car for him breaking the world record. In addition to this, he also received a custom 1:59:30 number plate in honor of his achievement.
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After witnessing the massive welcome, the world-record holder made his feelings known about the gesture, saying:
“I am happy about this good day, that you came to celebrate with me, I did not expect it,” said Sabastian Sawe.
His father, Simoen Sawe, also weighed in on the grand gesture for his son, stating:
“He used to tell me that one day, he was going to break the record. He was so determined and hopeful that he would. I am happy for him and all of us here. We celebrated so much, my throat still hurts from all the cheering.”
Lauding the impressive performance, Ruto said:
“Sabastian, you have not only broken a record, you have expanded the horizon of human potential.”
Sabastian Sawe opened up about breaking the world record at the 2026 London Marathon
After etching his name in history books with his performance at the London Marathon 2026, Sabastian Sawe addressed the media, where he weighed in on his victory, stating that he was ecstatic with his win. Calling it a good day for him, he said:
“I am feeling good, I am happy, it’s a day to remember for me. We started the race well. Approaching finishing the race, I was feeling strong. Finally reaching the finish line, I saw the time and I was so excited. I am so happy for today. Coming to London for the second time was so important to me and that’s why I prepared well for it,” said Sabastian Sawe.
He added:
“Finally, what I had done for four months has come today to be a good result. I want to thank the crowds for cheering us. I think they help a lot, because if it were not for them, you don’t feel like you are so loved. I think they help a lot because them calling make you feel so happy and strong and pushing.”
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