Fauja Singh: Tributes Pour In as World’s Oldest Marathon Runner, 114, Dies in India Road Accident
Fauja Singh, the legendary east London marathon runner and global inspiration, has died aged 114 following a tragic road accident in India.
The centenarian, believed to be the world’s oldest person to ever complete a full marathon, was struck by a vehicle while crossing a road in his native village, Beas Pind, near Jalandhar in Punjab. The incident occurred on Monday, and Singh later succumbed to his injuries, according to local reports.
Known for his remarkable endurance and infectious optimism, Singh had made east London his home since 1992. His death was confirmed by Sikhs In The City—his London-based running club and charity.
In a heartfelt statement, they shared plans to turn their upcoming events in Ilford into a tribute, honouring Singh’s extraordinary life and legacy.
“Dearest runners. It is with great sadness that we can confirm our icon of humanity and powerhouse of positivity Fauja Singh has passed away in India. Aged 114 years old.”
“His running club and charity Sikhs In The City will be devoting all of its events until the Fauja Singh Birthday Challenge on Sunday March 29 2026 to celebrate his life of success and achievements.”
A quiet man with an unshakable spirit, Singh didn’t even lace up a pair of running shoes until the age of 89. But once he did, he left a trail of broken records and inspired millions across the globe.
He ran his first London Marathon in 2000, clocking in at six hours and 54 minutes—shattering the previous best in the 90+ category by nearly an hour.
Born on April 1, 1911, in British-ruled Punjab, Singh had a slow start to life. As a child, he couldn’t walk until he was five due to frailty. But his story is one of perseverance.
After the death of his wife, Gian Kaur, he relocated to the UK and eventually found new purpose on the roads and tracks of east London.
His fastest marathon time came in 2003, when he finished the Toronto Waterfront Marathon in five hours and 40 minutes. But it was in 2011 that he etched his name in history—becoming, by many accounts, the first centenarian to ever complete a full marathon, again in Toronto.
Though Guinness World Records didn’t officially recognise the achievement—owing to the absence of a birth certificate—Singh’s age has never been seriously doubted. His passport and a birthday letter from Queen Elizabeth II both cite his birth as 1 April 1911.
He was a torchbearer for the London 2012 Olympics, and finally hung up his running shoes at 101.
His coach and close friend, Harmander Singh, paid tribute in the official club statement: “He succumbed to injuries caused by a vehicle accident while crossing the road close to his home.”
“We will be doubling the efforts to raise funds to building the Fauja Singh Clubhouse on the route in Ilford where he used to train.”
“In lieu of flowers please donate to his Clubhouse Appeal so we can carry on his legacy to encourage the world to keep fit and stay positive.”
Tributes have poured in from all corners. MP Preet Kaur Gill posted: “Saddened to hear about the passing of Fauja Singh. I had the honour of meeting him. A truly inspiring man… A reminder that age is just a number, but attitude is everything. Rest in power, legend.”
Redbridge Council Leader Jas Athwal echoed the sentiment: “Deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Sardar Fauja Singh Ji… He was a global Sikh icon, that inspired millions across the world. His spirit and legacy of resilience will run on forever.”
Singh wasn’t just a runner. He was a symbol of strength, discipline, and quiet defiance against the limits of age. His story touched hearts far beyond the finish lines he crossed.
He may be gone, but Fauja Singh’s stride will echo in the minds and hearts of athletes, Sikhs, and dreamers everywhere—for generations to come.
