Marathon Legend Eliud Kipchoge Shares His Winning Mindset with Manchester United Players During Inspiring Visit to Carrington Training Ground

When most people think of Eliud Kipchoge, they picture him sprinting gracefully through the final stretch of a marathon.

But last summer, he took on a completely different challenge—off the racecourse and onto the football field.

Right after the Paris Olympics, Kipchoge was invited to Manchester United’s training ground, not as a fan, but as a mentor.

The invitation came from none other than his good friend Sir Jim Ratcliffe, part-owner of the club and CEO of Ineos, a major sponsor of Kipchoge’s NN Running Team.

The goal? Share some of the mindset and discipline that made Kipchoge a two-time Olympic champion with a struggling United squad.

A Marathoner Among Footballers

Kipchoge didn’t just drop by for a handshake and a photo op.

He observed the team’s training sessions, mingled with the players, and even got a personalized jersey from team captain Bruno Fernandes.

Later, he sat in the stands to watch United fall 3-0 to Liverpool.

But he wasn’t discouraged.

“I talked to them about mindset and discipline,” Kipchoge recalls.

“Sport isn’t just about the body—it’s about the heart and the mind. They’re learning. And I really believe next season, United will come alive.”

Since then, he’s become a devoted supporter of the club.

“I’m a fan now because of my connection with Jim and Ineos. It feels like family. We’re building something special.”

A History-Making Friendship

Kipchoge’s friendship with Ratcliffe stretches back to 2019, the year of Kipchoge’s historic sub-two-hour marathon in Vienna—1:59:40 to be exact.

Although it didn’t count as a world record due to race conditions, it was a monumental achievement in human endurance, supported heavily by Ineos.

“Jim had a vision, kind of like when Roger Bannister broke the four-minute mile,” Kipchoge explains.

“He gave me the opportunity to chase something huge, and I took it.”

Their friendship has only grown since.

“We talk all the time on WhatsApp,” he says, laughing.

“Jim is a true sports fan.”

Ineos’ Mixed Fortunes in Sport

While Kipchoge’s career remains inspiring, Ratcliffe’s sporting ventures haven’t all gone as smoothly.

Ineos recently pulled its team from the America’s Cup sailing competition, faced legal drama with the All Blacks over sponsorship payments, and has seen questions arise around their roles in Formula One and professional cycling.

Still, Kipchoge is unfazed.

“Jim is passionate about sport. Ineos is solid. They’re backing us in Kenya and even planning a cycling academy. We believe one day, an African can win the Tour de France.”

A Global Vision for Sport

For Kipchoge, this isn’t just about marathons or medals—it’s about using sport to bring people together.

“We take insights from all kinds of sports—football, cycling, racing—and create something unified. It’s exciting,” he says.

“It feels like sharing brilliance across disciplines.”

Back to London: One Last Dance?

Now, Kipchoge is turning his attention back to what he does best—running.

He’s returning to the London Marathon this Sunday, his first time racing there since before the pandemic.

His last race ended early in Paris 2024, when he dropped out after 19 miles due to discomfort.

But he’s not dwelling on the past.

“I’ve trained well. I’m ready. Let’s see what happens,” he says with a grin.

Despite tough competition from reigning champ Alex Mutiso and Olympic gold medallist Tamirat Tola, Kipchoge’s looking to claim a record fifth London victory.

Beyond Records, a Legacy

Though he’s unlikely to beat his personal best of 2:01:09, the marathon legend isn’t counting himself out completely.

He acknowledges Kelvin Kiptum’s incredible 2:00:35—an untouchable mark since 2023—as a sign of what’s possible.

“I showed the world that it can be done. Others will break the two-hour barrier soon. It starts with fitness. Technology helps, but training is everything.”

Embracing the Moment

Whether it’s his final London race or not, Kipchoge wants to soak in every moment.

“London is special. The crowds, the energy—it’s incredible. I just want to enjoy it, feel grateful, and say thank you to the fans.”

He’s also got a fondness for the local cuisine.

“I love a full English breakfast,” he admits.

“Bacon, sausages, toast, eggs—when you’re in top shape, it fuels you just fine!”

What Fuels the Legend?

Part of what keeps Kipchoge sharp is staying in tune with his body.

He uses a biosensor system called Lingo by Abbott, which helps him track his glucose levels and optimize performance.

So, what’s next for the greatest marathoner of all time?

A race in Sydney later this year.

And maybe, just maybe, another chance to make history.