A time of 2:14:04 on 13 October 2019 at the Chicago Marathon established a world record for Brigid Kosgei in the marathon event for women running in a mixed-sex race. This mark surpassed the previous global standard by 81 seconds, cementing her status as a dominant figure in long-distance running.
Early Development and Entry into Athletics
Born on 20 February 1994 in Kapsowar, Kenya, Brigid Jepchirchir Kosgei grew up in Elgeyo-Marakwet County. She is one of seven siblings, including her sister Pamela, who competes as a steeplechase runner. Kosgei began her formal training at the age of 17, working alongside her boyfriend and current husband, Matthew Kosgei.
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Kosgei quickly demonstrated consistency in the marathon, finishing in the top two positions in eight of her first nine attempts. Her 2016 performance at the Lisbon Marathon, where she finished second to Sarah Chepchirchir in 2:24:45, served as an early indication of her potential. By 2017, she secured a victory at the Bogotá Half Marathon and placed second at the Chicago Marathon in 2:20:22.
Major Marathon Successes
Between 2018 and 2026, Kosgei achieved significant victories across global circuit races. She won the Chicago Marathon twice, the London Marathon twice, and the Tokyo Marathon twice. In 2019, she became the youngest winner of the London Marathon. Her career includes a victory at the 2024 ADNOC Abu Dhabi Marathon, where she set a course record of 2:19:15.
Nationality Status
In April 2026, World Athletics declined an application for Kosgei to change her nationality to represent Turkey. The governing body characterized the attempt as part of a coordinated recruitment strategy to attract overseas athletes through lucrative contracts, determining it inconsistent with established eligibility and transfer of allegiance regulations.
Fast facts
- Born: 20 February 1994
- Birthplace: Kapsowar, Kenya
- Primary event: Marathon
- 2019 Chicago Marathon time: 2:14:04
- Sister: Pamela Kosgei
- Husband: Matthew Kosgei
- Citizenship: Kenya
Questions readers ask
What is Brigid Kosgei's best marathon time?
Her personal best and former world record is 2:14:04, set at the 2019 Chicago Marathon.
Did she compete for any other country besides Kenya?
No, her attempt to switch her nationality to Turkey was rejected by World Athletics in 2026.
