Olympic champion Joshua Cheptegei has officially withdrawn from the 2025 Antrim Coast Half Marathon after falling ill, organisers confirmed on Friday. The absence of the Ugandan star, widely regarded as one of the greatest long-distance runners of his generation, comes as a disappointment to fans eager to see him headline one of Northern Ireland’s most prestigious road races.
Cheptegei’s Global Legacy
At just 28, Cheptegei has built an extraordinary career:
- Olympic gold medalist in the 10,000m at the 2024 Paris Games, where he set a new Olympic record.
- World record holder in both the 5,000m and 10,000m.
- Three-time world champion in the 10,000m.
- Winner of the 5,000m gold at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
His expected participation had been a major attraction for this year’s Antrim Coast event, further cementing the race’s growing international reputation.
Illness Forces Withdrawal
Race director James McIlroy confirmed Cheptegei’s withdrawal, noting that the illness was picked up over the weekend and had left him unfit to compete.
“Joshua is deeply saddened to be missing the race,” McIlroy said. “However, his health must come first. We look forward to welcoming him back in the future.”
World-Class Field Remains
Despite Cheptegei’s absence, the half marathon will feature a stellar lineup. Among the top contenders are:
- Geoffrey Kamworor, seven-time world champion and one of Kenya’s most decorated distance runners.
- Lilian Kasait, another Kenyan star with a strong record in international competitions.
Organisers stressed that the Antrim Coast Half Marathon continues to attract Olympians, world champions, and world record holders, reinforcing its place as one of the fastest and most scenic courses in the world.
Looking Ahead
For Cheptegei, the withdrawal is a setback but not a derailment. With upcoming international competitions and marathon ambitions on the horizon, fans remain confident that the Ugandan legend will soon return to full strength.
As for the Antrim Coast Half Marathon, Sunday’s race still promises to deliver world-class performances and breathtaking competition — a testament to the event’s growing global prestige.