Nairobi, February 12 (PL) - The government and people of Kenya, as well as the international athletics family, mourn the death of world record-holder long-distance runner Kelvin Kiptum and his coach in a car accident last night.

While returning from Eldoret in Uasin Gishu County, Kiptum lost control of his vehicle in the Kaptagat area along the Eldama Ravine-Eldoret road.

The car veered off the road into a ditch before being stopped by a tree about 60 meters from the main road at 23:00 local time, according to the local Nation newspaper.

Along with the 24-year-old athlete, his coach, Rwandan Gervais Hakizimana, also died in the accident.

Kenyan President William Ruto lamented the event and said on his social network account X that Kiptum "possibly one of the best athletes in the world who broke barriers to achieve a marathon record. He was only 24 years old and, as a hero, he triumphed in Valencia, Chicago, London and other important competitions."

Ruto called his mental strength and discipline unmatched. "Kiptum was our future. An extraordinary athlete has left an extraordinary mark on the world. Our thoughts are with the family and the sporting fraternity. May he rest in peace," the post concluded.