Jacob Kiplimo Smashes World Record at eDreams Barcelona Half Marathon
Jacob Kiplimo made history at the 2025 eDreams Mitja Marató de Barcelona by Brooks on Sunday, February 16, shattering the half marathon world record with a stunning 56:42. His time was almost 50 seconds faster than the previous record of 57:30, setting a new benchmark for the sport. The Ugandan made history as the first athlete to complete the half marathon in under 57 minutes. This incredible performance fuels excitement for his marathon debut on April 27 in London. Meanwhile, Joyciline Jepkosgei defended her title in the women’s race, winning in 1:04:11—a new course record.
“I am very excited about what I achieved today. I started fast, I wanted to have a great race, but I never expected to break the world record,” Kiplimo said after crossing the finish line near Parc de la Ciutadella in Barcelona. The Ugandan runner is currently building his endurance for his highly anticipated marathon debut in London, and this performance proves he is on the right track.
"I pushed hard in the first two kilometers to break away from my competitors. As the race progressed and I saw that I was on world record pace, I kept telling myself that I had to maintain that rhythm no matter what," Kiplimo explained. Overwhelmed with emotion, he added, “Thank you, Barcelona, for the incredible support. I hope to return and continue making history.”
Kiplimo previously set his first world record in Lisbon in November 2021, clocking 57:31. He held the title for three years until Yomif Kejelcha surpassed it in October 2024 by just one second.
TOP RESULTS MEN HALF MARATHON:
- Jacob Kiplimo (UGA) – 56:42 World Record
- Josep Solà Benítez – 57:38
- Ivan Serrano Hernandez – 57:59
- Zulnio Tarakanantyo Yudha – 58:31
- Geoffrey Kipsang Kamworor –58:44
- Daniel Delgado Cañaveral – 58:55
- Samwel Nyamai Mailu – 59:40
- Yaw Kusi – 59:46
- Yeman Crippa – 59:52
- Benard Kibet Murkomen – 1:00:01
In the women’s race, Joyciline Jepkosgei dominated the field, securing back-to-back victories in Barcelona. Her 1:04:11 performance set a new course record. “I am very happy to win again in Barcelona, improve my time, and break the circuit record,” the Kenyan runner said post-race.
“I love racing in Barcelona, and I will return to keep improving year after year. A big thank you to the fans who cheered me on throughout the course. Because of you, I was able to achieve my goals,” she added joyfully.
