– I was shocked that people [nas] social media platforms say ‘Eliud is involved in this boy’s death’ – said the Kenyan runner.
Kelvin Kiptum surpassed his compatriot’s record by finishing the Chicago Marathon in 2h00m35. It was only Kelvin’s third marathon, which was more than 30 seconds below the old world record and shocked the world with the result.
The athlete suffered a fatal accident in February 2024. He and his coach, Rwandan Garvais Hakizaman, were in the car involved in the accident, in Kaptagat, Kenya.
After the marathon runner’s death, internet users raised a conspiracy theory that linked Eliud to the death of Kelvin Kiptum. In an interview, the runner said that he and his family still face threats to this day:
– I received a lot of bad things; They’re going to burn the (training) field, they’re going to burn my investments in the city, they’re going to burn my house, they’re going to burn my family. I was very scared of my children going to school – said the marathon runner.
In addition to the fear caused by the threats, Eliud states that the relationship with his training companions also suffered consequences.
– It was very painful for me to deal with even my own people, my training companions, those I have contact with… the insults come from them. What happened made me not trust anyone. I won’t trust even my own shadow,” he added.
Although the controversy still affects Kipchoge’s life, the marathon runner will run for Kenya at the Paris 2024 Olympics and is seeking his third Olympic medal in the category.
Athletics track at the Paris Olympics will have a different color
Tags: Kipchoge fears life receiving threats dont trust olympics
