World marathon record marathon holder, Eliud Kipchoge, on Thursday, was awarded the Princess Asturias Award for Sports for the year 2023 by the Spanish foundation.
Kipchoge received sh 7.4 million. He was also feted with a Joan Miro sculpture representing and symbolising the Award, a diploma and a symbol, conferred by 18-year old Princess Leonor of Asturias.
"The Princess of Asturias Award for Sports is to be granted to careers which have become an example of the benefits that practicing sports can bring people together and enhances solidarity and commitment,” a statement from the foundation read.
In appreciation, Kipchoge stated in a tweet that the award motivates him in his goal to leave a legacy in athletics.
“It is an absolute honour to receive the Princess of Asturias Award. To be amongst a list of extraordinary laureates, all people in different walks of life. It motivates me in my goal to leave a legacy in this world through running".
“A running world is a more peaceful, a happier and a healthier world. I would like to thank Her Royal Highness The Princess of Asturias and her parents, Their Majesties The King and Queen of Spain for granting me this honour," Kipchoge added.
Kipchoge holds the record of running a 42km marathon under two hours, a record he set during the Ineos challenge in Vienna, Austria.
He holds the record for the fastest time in a marathon 2:01:09 set in Berlin.