London, England – Sunday 26 April 2026 – Richard Whitehead MBE, Paralympic gold medallist, world‑record holder, and global advocate for diversity and inclusion, has once again redefined what is possible. Just two weeks after breaking the World Record at the Milano Marathon, Richard has done it again, this time on home soil.
Crossing the finish line of the TCS London Marathon in 2:40:25, Richard set a new World Marathon Record for athletes with bilateral knee amputations, surpassing his previous mark of 2:40:47 set in Milan earlier this month, and his earlier record from the Chicago Marathon in 2024.
Richard’s performance further cements his status as the fastest leg‑amputee marathon runner in history. His achievement comes during a landmark year for the London Marathon, which also saw elite athlete Sabastian Sawe make global headlines by breaking the two‑hour barrier with a time of 1:59:30.
This latest milestone follows an extraordinary 2025, during which Richard completed 20 marathons across the world, concluding in New York, the city where his marathon journey first began in 2004. But for Richard, that achievement was never a finish line, it was a foundation.
Now, only months into 2026, he has already completed six marathons worldwide and added yet another World Record to his legacy.
Reflecting on the moment, Richard said:
“A milestone like this only fuels my drive and determination further, slowing down definitely isn’t in the plan. I know the power of visibility, and I’ve seen how someone like me, living with a very physical disability, can inspire others to believe in their own potential.”
While Richard continues to push the boundaries of athletic performance, his mission has never been defined solely by times or titles. For him, every race is about possibility, representation, and opening doors for others.
“I hope everything I do embodies courage and inclusion,” he said. “I want to proudly advocate for people living with disabilities and inspire others to believe that they too can achieve the extraordinary.”
Across his athletic career and advocacy work, Richard champions the belief that sport is a powerful catalyst, one that breaks down barriers, promotes wellbeing, builds community, and drives meaningful social change. His energy, optimism, and authenticity continue to motivate people of all ages and abilities.
“I see my disability as a resource, not a hindrance,” Richard added. “I want to help others see that they can make a difference, and that everyone has a gift to nurture and a story worth telling.”
Posted on 28 April 2026
