© Copyright – 2026 – Athletics Illustrated
Ugandan Jacob Kiplimo ran faster than the world record in the half-marathon, clocking a ridiculously fast 56:42 last February in Barcelona, Spain. However, World Athletics has decided not to ratify the performance as the world record because of assistance from the pace car.
So, it is Ethiopian Yomif Kejelcha’s record for now. He ran 57:30 during the 2024 Valencia Half Marathon.
World Athletics won't ratify Jacob Kiplimo's half marathon world record – 56:42 in Barcelona last year – chiefly due to the advantage he gained from the proximity of the lead car.
— Cathal Dennehy (@Cathal_Dennehy) February 3, 2026
World record will remain 57:30 by Yomif Kejelcha. Story by @Ismael_Prz: https://t.co/8kd4hD4Ose pic.twitter.com/a7Ts76LKYs
As reported by Runner’s World Magazine, “The committee that validates the records has estimated that the stratospheric mark of 56:42, which improved the previous record by no less than 48 seconds, was achieved with aids that violated the regulations, the main one being taking advantage of the slipstream of the nearby lead car that opened the race a few meters behind him to run with less air resistance, which helped him shave seconds off the clock.
Point 6.3 of the international federation’s regulations, which have been in effect since the end of 2020, deals with assistance to athletes and states that “pace marking by persons not participating in the same race, athletes lapped or about to be lapped, or by any technical device” and the use of any mechanical assistance are not permitted.”
As late winter and early spring time is marathon and half-marathon season (as is the autumn), there is no doubt that Kejelcha’s 57:30 will be challenged, but Kiplimo’s 56:42 is likely off anyone’s radar for now.
