New Delhi— Fauja Singh, the world’s oldest known marathon runner, has died aged 114 after being struck by a car on July 14 near his birth village, Beas Pind, in Punjab, India.

Born in 1911 (though without a birth certificate), Singh became a global icon after taking up running at age 89. He completed his first London Marathon in 2004 at 93, and at 100, made history by completing the Toronto Marathon—becoming the first centenarian to do so.

A beloved figure in the global running community, Singh inspired millions with his stamina, positivity, and humility. He was a torchbearer in the 2012 London Olympics and received the Spirit of the London Marathon Award in 2018. Singh was also widely celebrated for his philanthropic efforts.

Having moved to Ilford in 1992, Singh trained with the Sikhs In The City running club, whose coach Harmander Singh confirmed his death, calling him an “icon of humanity.”

The club will dedicate upcoming events to his memory and raise funds for a Fauja Singh Clubhouse in Ilford. London Marathon Group CEO Nick Bitel said, “Fauja Singh was an incredible, inspirational human being who epitomised the Spirit of the London Marathon.”