Who Will Be the Next Marathon World Record Holder?

Diego Tobias
Mar 20
4 min read

Updated: Mar 29

The marathon world record represents the absolute pinnacle of endurance running. Currently, the men’s marathon world record belongs to Kelvin Kiptum of Kenya, who ran an astonishing 2:00:35 at the 2023 Chicago Marathon. However, with the rapid evolution of training techniques, technology, and race-day strategy, several rising stars are emerging as contenders to break this record in the near future.

Here’s a look at the top marathoners who have the best chance to become the next world record holder.

Sisay Lemma – Ethiopia’s Marathon Machine

One of the strongest candidates to take down the world record is Sisay Lemma, the Ethiopian marathoner who clocked 2:01:48 at the 2023 Valencia Marathon.

Why Lemma Could Break the Record:

Elite-Level Speed – A 2:01 marathoner is already within striking distance of the record.
Experience – Lemma has competed at the highest level in London, Berlin, and Valencia.
Proven Strength Over 26.2 Miles – His ability to hold sub-2:02 pace deep into races is a huge asset.

If Lemma targets Berlin or Chicago, both known for fast times, he could be the next sub-2-hour marathoner.

Milkesa Mengesha – Ethiopia’s Rising Star

Milkesa Mengesha is a name you need to know. The 2019 U20 Cross Country World Champion has transitioned beautifully to the marathon, and he’s showing signs that he could be Ethiopia’s next great long-distance star.

Why Mengesha Could Break the Record:

Recent Breakthrough – He won the 2024 Tokyo Marathon in 2:04:02, defeating a strong field.
Youth & Room for Improvement – At 23 years old, Mengesha is just entering his prime.
Speed & Cross-Country Background – His tactical intelligence and ability to handle tough conditions make him a strong candidate for a record-breaking day on the right course.

Mengesha is just getting started—and he might be the next Ethiopian to push the limits of the marathon.

John Korir – The Kenyan Challenger

John Korir is one of the most promising young Kenyan marathoners. He clocked a 2:02:44 personal best at the 2024 Chicago Marathon, proving that he belongs in the conversation for the next world record.

Why Korir Could Break the Record:

Consistently Getting Faster – His times have improved every single season.
Perfect Age for a Breakthrough – At 27, he is at the ideal stage for a world-record push.
Aggressive Front-Running Style – He doesn’t wait for the final miles—he goes hard from the start.

With the right conditions at Berlin or London, Korir has the tools to push toward a sub-2 marathon.

Evans Chebet – The Consistent Winner

Evans Chebet has proven himself in Boston, New York, and Valencia, with a personal best of 2:03:00.

Why Chebet Could Break the Record:

Tactical Genius – He knows how to control the race pace and strike at the right time.
Proven Track Record in Big Races – Multiple World Marathon Major wins put him among the best.
Weather Adaptability – Chebet has won in both hot and cold conditions, proving he can deliver on race day.

If Chebet targets a race designed for fast times, he could take a serious shot at the record.

Cybrian Kotut – The Berlin Marathon Factor

Kenyan runner Cybrian Kotut ran a 2:03:22 at the 2024 Berlin Marathon, putting himself in the conversation for a future world record attempt.

Why Kotut Could Break the Record:

Berlin Marathon Success – Berlin has produced multiple world records, and Kotut knows how to perform there.
Rapid Progression – He has dropped his times significantly each year.
Strong Pacing Ability – He is good at managing energy efficiently, which is crucial for a record attempt.

If Kotut continues improving, he could be a future sub-2-hour contender.

Haymanot Alew – Ethiopia’s Dark Horse

A relatively new name in the marathon world, Haymanot Alew ran an impressive 2:03:31 at the 2024 Berlin Marathon.

Why Alew Could Break the Record:

Ethiopia’s Training System – Ethiopia consistently produces elite endurance athletes.
Smart Race Tactics – He is a patient runner who knows when to make his move.
Proven Speed & Stamina – His 2:03 marathon shows he has the tools for a world record attempt.

Alew is one of the biggest wildcards, but if he continues his trajectory, he could be the surprise record-breaker.

The Role of Technology in Breaking the Record

Beyond natural talent, technological advancements are playing a huge role in marathon success.

Key Factors Helping Athletes Run Faster:

Carbon-Plated Super Shoes – Nike, Adidas, and Asics have developed shoes that offer better energy return, reducing fatigue.
Optimized Race Courses – Courses like Berlin, Chicago, and Valencia have proven to be the fastest in the world.
AI & Data-Driven Training – Runners now use cutting-edge coaching technology to optimize training and hit peak performance at the right time.

With elite talent + modern innovation, we could see the first sub-2-hour official marathon soon.