Eliud Kipchoge reitarates on the importance of teamwork ahead of Paris Olympics

With little less than three months left till the 2024 Paris Olympic Games get rolling, double Olympic champion Eliud Kipchoge believes that teamwork between the marathon athletes will prove key for the ultimate crown.

Kipchoge, speaking after the unveiling of Kenya’s teams for the twin long-distance races in August, urged that the thinking between the runners had to be focused on “team and not a World Marathon Majors.”

The former world marathon record holder will be joined by 2024 London Marathon champion Alexander Mutiso and Tokyo Marathon champion Benson Kipruto in the men’s final lineup, with Timothy Kiplagat standing-by as a reserve.

The women’s team on the other hand will include defending Olympic and London Marathon champion Peres Jepchirchir, back-to-back Boston Marathon champion Hellen Obiri and former world-record holder Brigid Kosgei.

Speaking on his selection and timing, Kipchoge said: “I am grateful to Athletics Kenya and the National Olympics Committee of Kenya (NOC-K) for including us in the team.

“For the next three months, we are going to train well and represent our country to the fullest with good results.”

On the team approach, Kipchoge reiterated the same message he had on teamwork adding: "In Paris we will go as a team and not as individuals. These are Games and not Marathon Majors."

As an individual however, Kipchoge remains a believer in his preparation and planning.

Eliud Kipchoge banking on teamwork to propel marathon team to glory in Paris Olympics

“All my heart, thoughts and mind are on the Olympics. We have over 160 countries participating and therefore no underrating anyone. We will give maximum respect to any athlete we face as its the only way to give back to Kenya.”

The 39-year old also posted on social media saying: “I always say the Olympic dream is a special dream. The Olympic Games is what we all dream of as little kids starting out with our sport and is what motivates us the most today.

Eyebrows raised over Brigid Kosgei's inclusion in Kenyan marathon squad

“I am beyond proud to be selected for the Kenyan team for the 5th time in my life. After winning the marathon gold medal in Rio de Janeiro and Tokyo, my focus will now be on Paris!”

Should he win gold, he will become the first marathon athlete to achieve that, separating himself from Ethiopia's Abebe Bikila and East Germany's Waldemar Cierpinski, who are on two.