A video posted by Samson Cheruiyot, the father of late marathon world record holder Kelvin Kiptum, on TikTok on September 25, 2026, has left many Kenyans deeply troubled. In the clip, Samson stands outdoors, speaking directly into the camera in what appears to be an unscripted, emotional monologue. His hand gestures and fragmented speech paint a picture of a man carrying a heavy burden, months after the world lost one of Kenya's greatest distance runners.
Kelvin Kiptum became a global athletics icon after setting the marathon world record in Chicago in 2023. His sudden death left the country in mourning, and his family has since been navigating life without him in the public eye. The grief has not been easy for Samson. In April 2026, he went public with accusations that a management firm which had contracted his son had neglected him in the wake of Kiptum's passing.
That earlier cry for help went largely unanswered, and his latest video suggests the pain has not eased. The video sparked an outpouring of concern from Kenyans, with fans calling on Athletics Kenya and sports officials to step in. Many believe that Kiptum's legacy and achievements should come with lasting support for those he left behind.
The TikTok video drew an immediate and emotional response from viewers who recognised Samson and were moved by his apparent state of distress. Fans directed their frustration at institutions they felt should be doing more to support the bereaved family. Several comments were made, with some calling for the relevant authorities to take action.
Kiptum and his Rwandan coach died in a fatal accident in Eldoret that rocked the athletics world. He was driving before losing control of the car, leaving behind his wife and kids and parents. The incident sent shockwaves across the globe, with many paying tribute to the young athlete's achievements.
Samson Cheruiyot's video has sparked a renewed call for support for the Kiptum family. As the athletics community continues to mourn the loss of one of its brightest stars, fans and officials alike are urging for more to be done to help those left behind. The Kenyan government and athletics officials have yet to comment on the video.
The outpouring of concern for Samson Cheruiyot highlights the impact Kelvin Kiptum had on his community and the nation at large. As Kenya continues to celebrate his achievements, his family's struggles serve as a poignant reminder of the human cost of loss and the need for support.
Key points
- Kelvin Kiptum's father, Samson Cheruiyot, has shared a distressing video on TikTok, sparking concern over his welfare months after his son's death.
- Kelvin Kiptum died in a fatal accident in Eldoret in 2023, leaving behind a legacy as a marathon world record holder.
- The video has sparked calls for support for the Kiptum family, with fans urging Athletics Kenya and sports officials to step in.
