Kipchoge, the most decorated marathoner in history, broke away inside the last 10km on a course that partly used the Australian Formula One track at Albert Park and finished inside the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). It was his first victory over the distance since Berlin in 2023 and formed part of his "World Tour" to raise funds for causes he believes in.
"On the course, it was really wonderful; I enjoyed seeing people standing, cheering, and shouting my name," Kipchoge said, looking fresh at the finish. He would have gone faster, but slowed down at the MCG to wave to fans.
"It was actually different – running on a beautiful course, but also running on the Formula One track, and above all else, finishing on a cricket ground," he added.
Kipchoge announced in 2025 that he planned to complete marathons on all seven continents, including Antarctica, over two years. Melbourne was the third stop after South Africa and Brazil.
"I believe that my body is still peaking – still able to compete with the next generation," he said. "The oldest athlete is still competing, but I am happy to run with the Gen Zs."
Australian Thomas Do Canto finished second behind Kipchoge at 2:10:35, while compatriot Reece Edwards was third at 2:14:33. New Zealand’s Camille French won the women’s race in 2:28:25, followed by Australian Sinead Diver at 2:28:49 and Nichola Sheridan of Ireland at 2:29:13.