World’s Oldest Marathon Runner Fauja Singh Dies at 114 in Road Accident

Fauja Singh, known as the “Turbaned Tornado” and believed to be the world’s oldest marathon runner, passed away on July 14, 2025, at age 114. The Indian-born British national died after a road accident in Punjab’s Jalandhar district. His biographer confirmed the news, sparking tributes worldwide. Singh inspired millions with his late-life running career.

Singh was struck by an unidentified vehicle while crossing the road in his village, Beas Pind. He succumbed to injuries at a local hospital. 3 Biographer Khushwant Singh shared the news on X: “My Turbaned Tornado is no more.” Without a birth certificate, his family claimed he was born on April 1, 1911, under British colonial rule.

Singh started running at 89, after losing his wife and son. Television marathons inspired him. He completed full marathons until age 100. His last race was a 10km event at the 2013 Hong Kong Marathon, where he finished in 1 hour, 32 minutes, and 28 seconds.

Marathon legend Fauja Singh dies in a road accident at the age of 114.

– Hit by a vehicle outside the Jalandhar home.

– Family to perform last rites in 2-3 days.@karishmasingh22 shares more details with @DEKAMEGHNA pic.twitter.com/b4IOifRzyi

— TIMES NOW (@TimesNow) July 15, 2025

Guinness World Records did not certify him as the oldest runner due to insufficient proof of age. Nevertheless, he gained fame and recognition for his achievements. He had the honour of carrying the Olympic torch in Athens in 2004 and in London in 2012. He also appeared in advertisements alongside stars like David Beckham and Muhammad Ali.

Singh credited his strength to farm walks and a simple diet. This included Indian sweets like laddu with dry fruits and home-churned curd. His routine emphasised fitness and determination.

Legendary international marathon runner Baba Fauja Singh has passed away after being struck by a vehicle near Jalandhar during a walk.

The 114-year-old athlete inspired countless hearts with his courage and determination, bringing global recognition to the Sikh identity and… pic.twitter.com/oEssOjpgMJ

— Gurpreet S. Sahota (@GurpreetSSahota) July 14, 2025

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Fauja Singh on X: “Fauja Singh was extraordinary because of his unique persona and how he inspired the youth of India on a very important topic of fitness.” 0 Modi added, “He was an exceptional athlete with incredible determination. Pained by his passing away. My thoughts are with his family and countless admirers around the world.”

Fauja Singh Ji was extraordinary because of his unique persona and the manner in which he inspired the youth of India on a very important topic of fitness. He was an exceptional athlete with incredible determination. Pained by his passing away. My thoughts are with his family and…

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 15, 2025