Kenyan athlete Kelvin Kiptum’s meteoric rise in the world of marathon running is now marked by controversy following allegations of breaching a sponsorship contract with Chinese sportswear brand Qiaodon.
The sag occured after his sensational victory at the Trinidad Alfonso Valencia Marathon in 2022.
Kiptum’s triumph in Valencia, where he achieved the third-best marathon time in history, garnered him significant attention from sponsors.
Qiaodon, eager to capitalize on his success, reportedly offered Kiptum a lucrative deal worth over Sh15 million, encompassing apparel and equipment sponsorship.
The agreement was inked on January 15, 2023, signaling the beginning of what seemed to be a mutually beneficial partnership.
However, tensions arose when Kiptum, amidst preparations for the prestigious London Marathon, seemingly disappeared just days before the event.
Qiaodon representatives, who had traveled to Kenya to accompany their sponsored athlete, found themselves unable to reach Kiptum, raising concerns about his commitment to the sponsorship agreement.
The situation took a dramatic turn when, at the London Marathon, Kiptum appeared clad in Nike apparel, contradicting his contractual obligations with Qiaodon.
Qiaodon, understandably dismayed by Kiptum’s actions, is reportedly contemplating legal action against the Kenyan athlete.
The breach of contract not only jeopardized the financial investment made by the Chinese sportswear brand but also tarnished their reputation within the industry.
