President William Ruto has awarded Kenyan long-distance runner Sabastian Sawe Ksh8 million after his triumph in the just concluded London Marathon, where he broke the world record.
In a ceremony held at the State House on April 30, Sawe received two separate cheques from the government, one worth Ksh5 million for breaking a world record and another worth Ksh3 million as a gold-medal reward, bringing the total payout to Ksh8 million.
The presentation was made in line with an existing government directive that promises instant cash rewards for athletes who set world records, alongside standard bonuses for gold medal performances.
Sawe Receives Millions for Marathon Record
The first cheque of Ksh5 million was awarded under a standing directive that any Kenyan athlete who breaks a world record qualifies for an immediate cash reward.
The second cheque of KSh3 million was then presented to Sawe, corresponding to the reward set aside for athletes who win gold under the government’s athlete rewards framework.
The two cheques were handed over in the presence of President Ruto, who acknowledged Sawe’s performance as a proud moment for the country and an example of the impact of sustained investment in sports.
“What makes this accomplishment even more extraordinary is the fact that just two years ago, you (Sabastian Sawe) were not even a marathoner. Yet, since you stepped into the marathon world in 2024, you have remained unbeaten,” President William Ruto stated during his speech.
In a symbolic gesture, Sawe also presented the President with the shoes he used during the record-breaking run.
Also Read: FIFA Approves Plan That Will Force Clubs to Have Academy Players in Squads
The shoes were described as historic, marking the race in which the athlete set the new benchmark.
The ceremony also included the presentation of a commemorative number plate bearing Sawe’s recorded finishing time, which President Ruto termed a landmark achievement for Kenyan athletics.
Ruto further promised to buy Sawe a car to accompany the commemorative number plate presented in his honor, saying the athlete could use it alongside the vehicle he already owns.
In his remarks, President Ruto said athletes remain among Kenya’s strongest global ambassadors, and no amount of spending could match the international recognition they bring to the country.
He said the government is investing in sports infrastructure, including new stadia, renovations of existing facilities, and grassroots academies aimed at identifying talent early.
“If there was any doubt in anybody’s mind about Magical Kenya, or about the origin of wonder, Sabastian has put clarity on the matter. If you are looking for wonder, come to Kenya and witness Sabastian Sawe create wonder,” President Ruto added.
Ruto added that sports and the creative economy are key pillars of the country’s youth employment strategy, offering pathways for young people to turn their talent into stable livelihoods.
Also Read: Profile of Sabastian Sawe, First Man to Run a Marathon in Under 2 Hours
The President concluded by wishing Team Kenya well at the World Relays Championships in Botswana, noting that the team, led by Ferdinand Omanyala and rising star Mercy Oketch, is expected to represent the country with distinction.
What Next for Sawe
Sebastian Sawe has not confirmed any immediate race after his record-breaking London Marathon, with his team indicating he will take time to recover before returning to competition.
The world record holder, however, has said he plans to race again in the autumn of 2026.
The Berlin Marathon in September has emerged as the most likely next stop, with Sawe and his team viewing it as a faster course suited to another big performance.
Sawe has also suggested that he believes he can run an even faster time than his current world record when he returns to racing, stating he can run 1:58:00.
