Legendary marathoner Eliud Kipchoge has won the 2023 Princess of Asturias Award sports category.
The foundation's panel of 15 judges described Kipchoge as a legend in the world of athletics whose records are unmatched.
The judges pinpointed his achievement in 2019 when he managed to run a marathon in under 2 hours, although the feat was not officially recognised.
Kipchoge boasts of 16 wins out of 18 marathons that he has competed in, winning in prestigious marathons such as London and Berlin four times each.
"The Jury has valued the figure of the athlete as a role model in world athletics and as the best marathon runner of all time. Two-time Olympic champion and holder of the world record for the race, Kipchoge is the only man in history to have managed to run the 42.195 kilometres in under two hours, although this feat has not been officially recognised," read part of the statement from the judges.
In addition to his successes as an athlete, Kipchoge was praised for carrying out meaningful social work through the Eliud Kipchoge Foundation. The foundation facilitates access to early childhood education and protects the environment.
Kipchoge, who is in Spain to receive the award, told international media that he was excited to receive the award alongside extraordinary people who have excelled in different sectors.
“It is an absolute honour to receive the Princess of Asturias Award. To be amongst a list of extraordinary laureates, all people from different walks of life. It motivates me in my goal to leave a legacy in this world through running since a running world is a more peaceful world, a happier world and a more healthy world," he stated.
"I would like to thank Her Royal Highness the Princess of Asturias and her parents, Their Majesties the King and Queen of Spain, for granting me this honour."
The Princess of Asturias Awards is an award ceremony that aims to reward exceptional individuals in different areas including scientific, technical, cultural, social, sports and humanitarian.
The ceremony will be held in Oviedo, Spain on Friday, October 20.
Kipchoge is a decorated athlete who has Olympic victories and over 10 major titles to his name. He recently held the World Marathon record until it was broken by Kenyan athlete Kelvin Kiptum during the Chicago Marathon on October 8, 2023.
