Fauja Singh, the Indian-born British distance runner widely believed to be the world’s oldest marathoner, has died at the age of 114 following a road accident in Punjab’s Jalandhar district.
Known as the “Turbaned Tornado” for his remarkable endurance, Singh was struck by an unidentified vehicle while crossing a road in his village of Bias on Monday.
His biographer, Khushwant Singh, confirmed the tragic news in a social media post, writing, “My Turbaned Tornado is no more… Rest in peace, my dear Fauja.” Though he lacked an official birth certificate, Singh’s family maintained he was born on April 1, 1911, under British colonial rule.
Singh gained global fame after taking up distance running at the age of 89, following the deaths of his wife and one of his sons. Inspired by televised marathons, he went on to complete full 42-kilometer races until he was 100. His final competitive run was a 10-kilometer event at the 2013 Hong Kong Marathon, which he finished in one hour, 32 minutes, and 28 seconds.
Despite his legendary status, Guinness World Records never officially recognized him as the oldest marathon runner due to the absence of verifiable birth records. Nevertheless, Singh became a celebrated figure in athletics, carrying the Olympic torch in both the 2004 Athens and 2012 London Games. He also starred in advertisements alongside icons like David Beckham and Muhammad Ali.
Singh attributed his longevity and stamina to a disciplined lifestyle, including daily farm walks and a diet rich in homemade yogurt and laddu, a traditional Indian sweet loaded with dry fruits.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Singh on social media, calling him “an exceptional athlete with incredible determination” who inspired millions with his dedication to fitness. “Pained by his passing away,” Modi wrote. “My thoughts are with his family and countless admirers around the world.”
Singh’s legacy as a symbol of perseverance and vitality will endure, leaving an indelible mark on the world of sports and beyond.