Fauja Singh, the world-renowned marathon runner believed to be 114 years old, has died following a road accident in his native village of Beas Pind in the Jalandhar district of Punjab, India. The accident occurred around 3:30 PM on July 14, 2025, when he was struck by an unidentified vehicle while crossing the road. Singh was rushed to a private hospital in Jalandhar, where he succumbed to his injuries.

Born on April 1, 1911, in Punjab, British India, Fauja Singh defied age stereotypes to become an inspirational figure in the world of long-distance running. His journey began in earnest at the age of 89, after the death of his fifth son, Kuldip. Singh's running career took off when he completed the London Marathon in 2000 at the age of 89, clocking in at 6 hours and 54 minutes. This achievement broke the previous world best for the 90-plus age bracket by 58 minutes.

Although he beat a number of world records in multiple age brackets, none of his times were ratified as records. His personal best for the London Marathon, achieved in 2003, was 6 hours and 2 minutes. His best marathon time, allegedly achieved at the age of 92 in the 90-plus age bracket, was 5 hours and 40 minutes at the 2003 Toronto Waterfront Marathon.

Singh's accomplishments earned him numerous accolades, including the Ellis Island Medal of Honor in 2003 for being a symbol of racial tolerance. He was also named Pride of India in 2011. In 2004, he was featured in an Adidas advertising campaign alongside David Beckham and Muhammad Ali. Singh was also chosen as a torchbearer for the London Olympics in 2012.

Prior to his running career, Singh faced numerous challenges, including not being able to walk until he was five years old due to weak legs. He worked as a farmer and railway worker before moving to the UK in 1992 to live with his son. It was in the UK that he rediscovered his passion for running.

News of Fauja Singh's death has prompted tributes from across the globe. Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria expressed his condolences, noting that Singh continued to inspire generations with his strength and commitment even at the age of 114. Kataria recalled walking alongside Singh during the "Nasha Mukt: Rangla Punjab" march in December 2024, emphasizing the unparalleled energy and spirit that Singh brought to the movement. Chandigarh-based author Khushwant Singh, who penned Fauja Singh's biography, "The Turbaned Tornado," shared his sadness on social media, calling Singh "most revered".