Jacob Kiplimo‘s incredible 56:42 time in the Barcelona Half Marathon just under a year ago has not been ratified as the world record time for the distance.
In what was arguably the most incredible running performance of 2025, the Ugandan smashed the previous best by an astonishing 48 seconds.
But Runners World Spain have claimed that World Athletics, the international governing body, have confirmed to them that Kiplimo’s 56:42 did not comply with their competition rules.
Lead car in spotlight
They say the “main reason” given was the close proximity of the lead car, a point which was hotly debated on social media at the time.
Under Article 6.3.1 of the Technical Rules, athletes cannot receive pacing assistance from anyone not competing in the same race, lapped or about to be lapped, nor from any technical device other than a wearable.
However Runners World Spain also pointed out: “World Athletics rules are vague regarding the required distance between the race car and the lead athlete or group.”
Runners World Spain’s report also alleges that Kiplimo violated a rule prohibiting receiving coaching advice.
London calling for Kiplimo and Kejelcha
Kiplimo’s time – the first ever under 57 minutes – still stands for the race but World Athletics continue to recognise Ethiopia’s Yomif Kejelcha as the world record holder thanks to his 57:30 at the 2024 Valencia Half Marathon.
Intriguingly both Kiplimo and Kejelcha are slated to run in this year’s London Marathon in late April.
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