• OTHERS

• Frank Rotich 2 months ago

Kipchoge embraces new Olympic chapter as Winter Games flag bearer

Kenyan marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge has opened a fresh chapter in his Olympic journey after serving as a flag bearer at the opening ceremony of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games—an honour he describes as both strange and deeply inspiring.

The two-time Olympic marathon champion returned to the Olympic stage not as a competitor, but as a global ambassador for sport, carrying the Olympic flag into the iconic San Siro Stadium in Milan.

 It was a rare and emotional moment for the 41-year-old, whose Olympic story began more than two decades ago.

“I really feel good and happy to be recognised by the world of sport,” Kipchoge said. “But I also feel a little bit strange to be at the Winter Olympic Games.”

Best known for conquering the roads of the world, Kipchoge admitted the winter setting felt unfamiliar. Still, he embraced the moment, reflecting on the power of the Olympic movement to unite athletes across all sports and seasons.

“I remember running on ice, as I normally run on asphalt,” he said with a smile. “But I value what the Olympics has set in this world of sport.”

Kipchoge, who won marathon gold at the Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020 Games, was selected as one of eight flag bearers by the International Olympic Committee and the Milano Cortina 2026 organisers.

The decision was based on his inspirational career and the values he represents—peace, unity and solidarity.

This appearance marks Kipchoge’s sixth Olympic experience, but his first in such a symbolic role. From winning a 5,000m bronze at Athens 2004 to becoming the greatest marathon runner of all time, the Kenyan icon says carrying the flag was about more than personal achievement.

“I’m holding the flag to promote love, unity and what sport does by bringing people together,” he said.

Despite being a summer athlete, Kipchoge revealed a growing admiration for winter sports. He singled out cross-country skiing as a discipline he feels connected to because of its endurance demands. He also surprised many by praising ice hockey.

“I like ice hockey—the collisions and how they crash,” Kipchoge said. “That’s the beauty and sweetness of sport.”

Looking ahead, the marathon king says his running journey is far from over. While he may be stepping away from Olympic competition, his passion remains strong. Over the next two years, Kipchoge plans to run across all seven continents, ending with a race in Antarctica.

“I want to run for a purpose,” he explained. “To tell people that running brings happiness, fitness and peace.”

From breaking barriers on the road to carrying the Olympic flag on ice, Eliud Kipchoge continues to inspire the world—proving that greatness goes beyond medals and finish lines.