French President Emmanuel Macron joined Kenyan marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge for an early morning run in Nairobi on Monday, the third day of his tour of Africa. The two covered nearly eight kilometres at a light tempo, with both men visibly in high spirits.
Kipchoge, wearing his signature white sleeves, set the pace while Macron opted for a simple t-shirt and shorts. The 48-year-old French president, an avid runner, managed to keep up but later thanked Kipchoge for his 'patience'.
A Meeting of Icons
Kipchoge is widely regarded as one of the greatest marathon runners in history. The two-time Olympic champion (Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020) also holds a world championship title, 11 World Marathon Major victories, and two official world records. In 2019, he became the first person to break the two-hour marathon barrier under special conditions, clocking an unofficial time of 1:59:40 in Vienna.
Macron's run with Kipchoge is part of a broader effort to strengthen ties between France and African nations. Earlier in his tour, Macron joined Kenyan dancers to 'Hakuna Matata' ahead of the Africa-France Summit, signalling a shift towards cultural diplomacy.
The French president has been vocal about redefining Europe's relationship with Africa, advocating for investment over aid. In a recent speech, he defended Europe's role in Africa, calling for a new partnership based on mutual respect and economic cooperation.
Macron's Africa tour comes at a time when European influence on the continent is being challenged by other global powers. The run with Kipchoge, a national hero in Kenya, underscores Macron's attempt to connect with African publics on a personal level.
Kipchoge's achievements have inspired millions worldwide, and his meeting with Macron highlights the intersection of sport, diplomacy, and international relations. The jog also served as a reminder of the power of athletics to bridge cultural and political divides.
Macron's schedule in Nairobi includes meetings with Kenyan President William Ruto and other officials, focusing on trade, climate change, and security cooperation. The France-Kenya relationship is seen as a key pillar of France's strategy in East Africa.
As Macron continues his tour, the image of him running alongside Kipchoge will likely resonate as a symbol of the personal connections that underpin international diplomacy. For now, the French president can add 'ran with the greatest marathoner of all time' to his list of diplomatic achievements.
