Kiplimo broke the record that previously held by Kenyan Kibiwott Kandie (57.32) since 2020, which was achieved in the Spanish city of Valencia.

“I am very happy to break the world record. In the last three kilometres I had some difficulties, but I did my best”, said the athlete in a press conference during which he revealed that he wanted to return to Lisbon for the next edition of the half marathon.

Ethiopian Tsehay Beyan, winner of the women's race with a time of 1:06.06 hours, beat of stiff competition from Kenyan Daisy Cherotich (1:06.15) and Joyce Tele (1:06.19), who finished in second and third respectively, however she was unable to break the world record of Kenya's Peres Jepchircir (1:05.16).

Tsehay Beyan shared Kiplimo's feeling of happiness, while also stating that she intends to return to the race next year.

Also present at the race were the president of the Marathon Club of Portugal, which organises the event, Carlos Móia, the mayor of Lisbon, Carlos Moedas, and the Secretary of State for Youth and Sports, João Paulo Rebelo.

“It's the fourth time the world record has been broken here. It's fantastic for the city of Lisbon, and for the sponsors that help us”, said Carlos Móia.

Carlos Moedas revealed that it was with “great pride” to be present “for the first time” as president of the municipality, in a moment he considered to be “very special”.

“I will always continue to support this great competition and others that are so important for the city of Lisbon. It is even more important in this pandemic moment, to feel these physical moments in which we live and look at the city together”, he said.

For his part, João Paulo Rebelo highlighted the role that the Lisbon half marathon has played in society in its 30 editions: “If there is one thing that the Lisbon half marathon has shown in these 30 years, it is that it makes people move and be active. It encourages and promotes physical activity and sports, which are absolutely essential for the country”.

Among the Portuguese athletes, Cátia Santos was 14 seconds behind the top 10, finishing in 11th place, at 01:11.15 hours, while Hermano Ferreira was the best among male runners, finishing in 17th place, at 01:03.33.