Fauja Singh, the British centenarian widely believed to be the world’s oldest marathon runner, has died at the age of 114 after being struck by a car in his birthplace of Beas Pind, India.
The tragic incident occurred while Singh was attempting to cross a road in the northern village, where he had returned to visit family.
News of his death was confirmed by Sikhs In The City, the London-based running club and charity that had long supported him.
Singh, who lived in Ilford, east London, since 1992, became a global inspiration for athletes and non-athletes alike after defying the limits of age and completing numerous marathons well into his centenarian years.
Born in 1911, Singh’s journey to athletic acclaim was far from typical. As a child, he was unable to walk until the age of five due to frailty in his legs. Yet, decades later, he would make history by completing his first marathon — the 2000 London Marathon — at age 89, clocking a time of six hours and 54 minutes.
He went on to set a personal best of five hours and 40 minutes at the 2003 Toronto Waterfront Marathon. In 2011, he became the first known centenarian to run a full marathon, also in Toronto.
Singh officially retired from competitive running in 2013, a year after carrying the Olympic torch ahead of the London 2012 Games at the age of 101 — a moment that cemented his legacy as a symbol of endurance and positivity.
His longtime coach, Harmander Singh of Sikhs In The City, paid tribute, calling him “an icon of humanity and a powerhouse of positivity.”
Politicians and admirers around the world expressed their sorrow and admiration. Preet Kaur Gill MP wrote on X (formerly Twitter), “Saddened to hear about the passing of Fauja Singh. I had the honour of meeting him. A truly inspiring man. His discipline, simple living, and deep humility left a lasting mark on me.”
Jas Athwal, leader of Redbridge Council, called Singh “a global Sikh icon that inspired millions.”
Singh often attributed his long life and stamina to a vegetarian diet rich7 in ginger curries and a disciplined routine of meditation and physical activity.
His story broke barriers and cultural stereotypes, showing that advanced age need not be a barrier to extraordinary physical feats.
Supporters across the UK and India have begun organising tribute runs in his memory, aiming to celebrate his indomitable spirit.
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has yet to comment on Singh’s passing or the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Fauja Singh leaves behind a legacy that transcends sport—a reminder that the human spirit can thrive at any age with discipline, purpose, and positivity.
Compiled by M10News Staff | Source: Sky News | 15 July 2025
