Fauja Singh, Legendary Marathon Runner, Dies At 114 In Road Accident

Fauja Singh, the legendary runner known as the world’s oldest marathoner, passed away at 114 due to a road accident on Monday. He was born in Beyas village, Jalandhar, Punjab on April 1, 1911. A report from BBC Punjabi states that he was struck by a car on the Jalandhar-Pathankot highway on Monday afternoon. He sustained a severe head trauma. Fauja was quickly taken to a hospital. He passed away at 7:30 pm IST on Monday.

Currently, Fauja Singh’s body is being held in a mortuary until his children, residing overseas, arrive. His final rites will take place only once they arrive.

“Deeply saddened by the passing of Sardar Fauja Singh Ji, the legendary marathon runner and an enduring symbol of resilience and hope. Even at the age of 114, he continued to inspire generations with his strength and commitment. I had the honour of walking alongside him during the two-day ‘Nasha Mukt – Rangla Punjab’ march from his village Beas, district Jalandhar in December 2024. Even then, his presence infused the movement with unparalleled energy and spirit,” Gulab Chand Kataria, Punjab governor, wrote in a post on his official Facebook account.

“It is heartbreaking to learn that he lost his life today in a tragic road accident in his village. His legacy, however, will forever live on in the hearts of those fighting for a healthier, and drug-free Punjab. My heartfelt condolences to his family and admirers across the globe. May his soul attain eternal peace.”

Fauja Singh never let age hold him back. The loss of his son Kuldip and his wife compelled him to seek a meaningful change in life. At the age of 89, he began to pursue running earnestly. Fauja Singh completed his inaugural race, the London Marathon, in 2000. He was famous in his village for “going from one spot to another,” as the elders in his village reminisce.

Fauja Singh participated in nine marathons of 26 miles (42 kilometers) held in London, Toronto, and New York. His fastest time was in Toronto, where he recorded five hours, 40 minutes, and four seconds.

He served as a torchbearer for the 2004 Athens Games and the 2012 London Olympics, and starred in an advertisement for a prominent sports brand years ago with celebrities such as David Beckham and Muhammad Ali.