The African Union Sports Council (AUSC) is shocked and gravely saddened to learn of the tragic deaths of Kenyan athlete Kelvin Kiptum and his coach Gervais Hakizimana which occurred on Sunday night following a car accident in the Kenyan town of Eldoret. Mr. Kiptum was a global track and field superstar. He acquired planetary recognition after setting a new world record, completing the Chicago marathon in 2:00:35 in October 2023. A flag bearer of Africa's sporting excellence on the world scene, the Kenyan athlete aged 24 was recognized in December 2023 at the World Athletics Awards as the best athlete in out of stadia competitions.
Mr. Kiptum was a mercurial athlete who courtesy of his record-breaking displays has left an indelible mark on world Athletics. He will be remembered as a talented, assertive and very competitive athlete who was an embodiment of African excellence.
The AUSC sends it deepest condolences to their families, friends, teammates, the nation of Kenya and to the African Athletics family at large.
About the AUSC
The African Union Sports Council (AUSC) is a specialized Technical Office of the African Union responsible for sports. The AUSC was established through the endorsement of the Statute of AUSC by the Assembly of African Heads of States and Governments in 2016. Its mandate is co-ordination of the African Sports Movement and being a forum for concerted action between Member States for the promotion and development of sports and development through sport in Africa.
