Jacob Kiplimo once again proved he is the standard in world cross country, powering to a historic third straight victory in the senior men’s race at the 2026 World Cross Country Championships in Tallahassee, Florida.
The Ugandan crossed the line in 28:18, sealing his three-peat with authority. Ethiopia’s Berihu Aregawi claimed silver for the third consecutive time in 28:36, while Kenya’s Daniel Simiu Ebenyo completed the podium in 28:45.
Kiplimo ran with the calm of a man who knew his moment would come. He let others set the early pace, with American Wesley Kipto leading the opening lap as Uganda’s Dan Kibet stayed close and the field remained compact.
By 4km, the familiar contenders had taken control. Ethiopia’s Tadese Worku briefly moved to the front, shadowed by Kibet and Ebenyo. Kiplimo stayed patient in fourth, watching the race unfold.
Just after halfway, he struck. Moving smoothly to the lead, Kiplimo increased the tempo and quickly broke clear. His surge opened a decisive gap, leaving Ebenyo, Aregawi and the rest with no response.
The final lap was a procession. Kiplimo stretched his lead to 18 seconds and cruised home, delivering another masterclass on the world stage.
With this win, Kiplimo not only defended his crown but cemented his place in history. He becomes just the fourth man to win three consecutive World Cross Country titles.
