Sabastian Sawe: Millions the Kenyan is Set to Earn After Historic Sub-2 Marathon World Record

Sabastian Sawe is set to take home a staggering prize purse of approximately £263,000 (more than Ksh 45 million) after his historic performance at the London Marathon on Sunday.

The 30-year-old made history by becoming the first athlete to break the two-hour barrier in a competitive marathon, crossing the finish line with a remarkable time of 1:59:30. His run obliterated the previous world record by more than a minute.

In an incredible display of athletic prowess, Yomif Kejelcha of Ethiopia also finished under the two-hour mark just moments later, securing second place with a time of 1:59:41.

While the legendary Eliud Kipchoge famously ran a sub-two-hour marathon in 2019, his time was not officially recognised as a world record because it was achieved under specially controlled, non-competitive conditions.

Sawe's record-breaking feat has triggered a series of lucrative bonuses. The standard prize for winning the elite men's race is $55,000 (£40,000). However, his exceptional time unlocked several additional payments.

He earned a $150,000 (£111,000) bonus for finishing under 2:02:00, another $125,000 (£92,000) for setting a new world record, and a further $25,000 (£18,500) for breaking the London course record.

As part of the Abbott World Marathon Majors series, all prize money is paid in US dollars, bringing Sawe's total earnings to an impressive $355,000.

Speaking to BBC TV after the race, a jubilant Sawe shared his excitement. "I am feeling good. I am so happy. It is a day to remember for me," he said.

"We started the race well. Approaching finishing the race, I was feeling strong. Finally reaching the finish line, I saw the time, and I was so excited."

The day saw another world record fall in the elite women's race, where Ethiopia's Tigst Assefa improved upon her own previous best.

She finished in a stunning 2:15:41 after a thrilling battle with rivals Hellen Obiri and Joyciline Jepkosgei. Assefa's performance also qualifies her for significant bonuses for breaking both the course and world records in London.