Eliud Kipchoge Advocates for Africa-France Sports Collaboration to Unlock Talent
NAIROBI, Kenya – May 11, 2026 – Marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge has urged stronger cooperation between Africa and France to develop the continent’s vast but underutilized sports potential. Speaking at the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi, the double Olympic champion emphasized the need for better infrastructure, training, and global partnerships to nurture future champions.
A Call for Shared Expertise
Kipchoge, the only man to run a marathon in under two hours, believes France’s advanced sports science, event management, and athlete development programs could complement Africa’s raw talent and vibrant sporting culture.
“France brings expertise in sports science, infrastructure, and hosting world-class events, while Africa offers unmatched talent, energy, and passion,” Kipchoge said. “This partnership could transform African sports into a sustainable powerhouse.”
Despite producing world-class athletes like Kenyan Sabastian Sawe and Ethiopia’s Yomif Kejelcha—who recently made history by breaking the two-hour marathon barrier at the London Marathon—Kipchoge lamented that many African talents remain untapped due to inadequate support systems.
The Missing Link: Infrastructure & Investment
The four-time London Marathon winner pointed out that while Africa excels in producing elite athletes, many lack access to cutting-edge training facilities, sports medicine, and financial backing.
“We have extraordinary talent, but the systems to nurture them—technology, media, funding—are often missing,” he said. “To realize our full potential, we must build ecosystems that support athletes at every stage.”
Kipchoge’s own career stands as proof of what’s possible with discipline and opportunity. After smashing the marathon world record and completing the distance in 1:59:40 at the 2019 INEOS Challenge, he inspired a generation with his “No Human Is Limited” mantra.
Passing the Torch
Now, as he nears retirement, Kipchoge is shifting focus to mentorship. Through his foundation, he aims to guide young athletes, ensuring they receive education, mentorship, and opportunities to thrive.
“For 23 years, discipline has driven me—from my first world title in 2003 to breaking barriers in marathons,” he said. “Now, I want to help others push past their limits.”
The Africa Forward Summit, where Kipchoge spoke, seeks to strengthen ties between France and African nations in sports, business, and innovation. His vision? A future where African athletes no longer have to leave the continent to succeed—where world-class training and competition happen right at home.
— Reported by Nexio News
