Fauja Singh, the World's Oldest Marathon Runner, Dies at 114 After Tragic Accident

Fauja Singh, celebrated as the world's oldest marathon runner, passed away at the age of 114 after being struck by a vehicle in his hometown in Punjab. Known for his incredible journey and running achievements later in life, Singh garnered international fame and left a legacy of resilience and positivity, inspiring many even after his recent passing.

Fauja Singh, a British-Indian figure revered as the world's oldest marathon runner, has been pronounced dead after suffering injuries in a hit-and-run accident in India, at the age of 114. According to local authorities, the incident occurred while Singh was crossing a road in Beas Pind, Punjab, the village of his birth. Following the collision, he was taken to a nearby hospital where he passed away shortly thereafter.

Singh’s legacy transcended borders; he set numerous marathon records across various age categories, even running nine full marathons after the age of 100. His contribution to sports and charity was celebrated through events organized by Sikhs In The City, his running club based in Ilford, London, where he had lived since 1992. A memorial event has been scheduled in his honor, coinciding with the Fauja Singh Birthday Challenge coming up on March 29, 2026.

District police officers confirmed that a manhunt is underway to locate the vehicle and its driver. Reports reveal an outpouring of condolences, with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressing deep respect for Singh's remarkable achievements and determination. Harmander Singh, who coached him for years, expressed his sadness, highlighting that Singh was a beacon of positivity and inspiration for many.

During an interview with BBC Punjabi earlier this year, Singh had shared his active lifestyle and passion for walking, emphasizing the importance of health. He was noted for his agile nature, frequently walking miles daily to maintain his physical condition. Singh, who participated in his first marathon at the age of 89, became a symbol of endurance, completing his first marathon at the London Marathon in 2000, running for a charity supporting premature infants. His path to running began as a means to cope with loss and grief following the tragic deaths of his wife and son.

Although his claim to being the oldest marathon runner was not officially recognized due to the absence of a birth certificate, Singh’s contributions to the sport are undeniable. Despite the challenges, he has been celebrated for being the first centenarian to complete a marathon in Toronto in 2011.

Throughout his life, Singh has experienced significant historical events, including the impacts of World Wars and the Partition, all of which shaped his journey. His rise from being a disabled child mocked by peers to a global icon was a testament to his resilience and determination.

Fauja Singh's immense popularity was further amplified when Adidas featured him in their "Impossible is Nothing" campaign, and he was honored by invitations from both Queen Elizabeth II and the Government of Pakistan for marathons. His wise words, shared in his later years, were focused on the virtues of simplicity, a balanced diet, and maintaining a joyful outlook on life.

As he spent his final years alternating between India and the UK, Singh remained a figure of inspiration and positivity, leaving behind a significant legacy that continues to touch lives far and wide. His commitment to running not only brought him acclaim but also served as a source of hope and motivation to others.

British Parliament members, including Preet Kaur Gill and Jas Athwal, have lauded Singh’s impact on their lives and the world, affirming that his spirit and resilience will reverberate for generations to come.