Eliud Kipchoge london marathon

Kenya’s Eliud Kipchoge celebrates on the podium during the winner’s ceremony after winning the Berlin Marathon setting a new world record on September 16, 2018 in Berlin. (Photo by John MACDOUGALL / AFP)

Eliud Kipchoge: What you need to know about the London Marathon favourite

Months after setting a new world record time, Eliud Kipchoge is expected to continue his dominance in the 2019 London Marathon.

Eliud Kipchoge london marathon

Kenya’s Eliud Kipchoge celebrates on the podium during the winner’s ceremony after winning the Berlin Marathon setting a new world record on September 16, 2018 in Berlin. (Photo by John MACDOUGALL / AFP)

The London Marathon takes centre stage on Sunday, and all eyes will be on Kenya’s Eliud Kipchoge, who is chasing an incredible eight world marathon major.

The 34-year-old is also the reigning champion in Britain’s capital, having finished at a time of 2:04:17.

It also wouldn’t be a stretch to say all bets will be on him, given how he’s fared since his most recent London triumph.

Kipchoge sprung into the public consciousness when he set a world record in the Berlin Marathon, clocking a remarkable time of 2:01:39.

Seven months on, the Kenyan megastar is expected to clean the field as he takes part in the 2019 London Marathon.

Simply unbeatable

When Eliud Kipchoge finished second in the 2013 Berlin Marathon behind countryman Wilson Kipsang, that would be the last time he would suffer defeat.

Since then he has won every single major marathon he has competed in.

Set for a duel against the best

The 34-year-old may be the favourite to win on Sunday, but the London crowd is likely to be at it’s loudest for one of his rivals.

British road-running superstar Mo Farah will also be gunning for top honours, as the two giants will be competing for only the second time over a similar distance.

It doesn’t end at Farah

The two megastar are not expecting to canter to the finish line, as the field consists of some other big names.

Half-marathon world record holder Abraham Kiptum – also from Kenya – will push the Brit and his countryman to the limit, so will the likes of Shua Kitata and Mosinet Geremew – both from Ethiopia.

Approaching uncharted territory

Kipchoge is no stranger to making history, and another step towards immortality beckons.

Having racked up three London Marathon crowns, victory in the 2019 edition of the race will see him become the first man to ever win it four times.

Not short of confidence

All eyes will be on him in London, and the 34-year-old is determined not to disappoint.

Speaking to Runner’s World ahead of the race, Kipchoge said he was satisfied with his preparations.

“My preparations have been good. I am fit. I think I will have a good result.”

Eliud Kipchoge