Eliud Kipchoge lands major United Nations ambassadorial role
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Reading Time: 2min | Thu. 10.10.24. | 09:20
This appointment marks the second time Kipchoge has taken on a UNESCO ambassadorship, having first accepted a similar position in October 2023
Two-time Olympic champion Eliud Kipchoge has been named the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) ambassador for sports, integrity, and values.
The announcement was made on Wednesday 9 October at the United Nations headquarters in Gigiri, Nairobi.
The legendary marathoner is expected to serve in this prestigious role for the next two years.
In accepting the ambassadorship, Kipchoge expressed his gratitude and the significance of the moment.
“I am deeply honored and humbled to accept the role of UNESCO goodwill ambassador for sport, integrity, and values. This moment is not just a personal achievement, but a reflection of the power of sports to inspire, unite, and transform lives,” he stated.
“Sports have always been more than a competition; it’s a universal language that teaches us teamwork, self-discipline, and the importance of integrity.
These values have shaped me as an athlete and continue to inspire me in everything I do. Thank you, UNESCO, for this incredible honor.
I look forward to working together to make a lasting difference and to remind the world that truly, no human is limited,” he concluded.
UNESCO East Africa Regional Director, Hubert Gijzen, noted that Kipchoge's selection was based on his unwavering values of discipline and integrity, as well as his commitment to championing environmental conservation and advocating for children's education.
“We have a very similar state of mind and priorities with Kipchoge, which made it a perfect match for us to join hands. For him, being the exceptional athlete that he is, combined with his broader outlook on life and the belief that sports can help individuals live better lives, is what attracted us to him.
We are also looking at how young people can be empowered through sports, education, and caring for the planet. His strong engagement in environmental conservation closely aligns with UNESCO’s objectives,” Gijzen told Capital Sports.
This appointment marks the second time Kipchoge has taken on a UNESCO ambassadorship, having first accepted a similar position in October 2023.
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