Usain Bolt reading the Guinness World Records book 2026 edition

Sprint legend Usain Bolt can finally be called a Guinness World Record ICON, becoming the first track athlete in history to receive such honour.

As the saying goes, “Delay isn’t denial,” it has been fulfilled in the life of the world’s fastest man, Usain Bolt, who was finally awarded a long-awaited recognition eight years after his retirement.

The Jamaican track legend was officially named a Guinness World Records ICON, in celebration of their 70th anniversary. He was also given all his GWR certificates.

During his active years, Bolt broke a total of 15 GWRs which includes:

Most consecutive Olympic gold medals won in the 100m (male), most consecutive Olympic gold medals won in the 200m (male), most Olympic men’s 200m Gold medals, fastest run 200m (male), and most men’s IAAF World Athlete of Year Trophies.

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Presenting all certificates to the world record holder in the 100m and 200m events, Guinness World Records Editor-in-Chief Craig Glenday said the titles were well earned.

“Usain Bolt, for me, is the epitome of a Guinness World Records ICON.

The great joy of this job is meeting these fundamental people – the world’s tallest and shortest, this amazing array of people.”

Bolt, who couldn’t hide his excitement gave his appreciation on how much it meant to him to add such an array of certificates in his house.

“I’m honoured to be a part of the greats, and always happy to be recognized by the Guinness World Records book.

For years I’ve been in there and I’ve finally got all the certificates, which are going to look really good in my house,” said the eight-time Olympic champion.

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“I’m happy to be an ICON,” he added.

Bolt also encouraged everyone to try to break a record of their own and shared the secrets in doing so.

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“It’s being dedicated to your sport, working hard, understanding that the road won’t be easy.

“There will be ups and downs but you have to be focussed.

Having a great team of people around you also, to support you, is very important. But it’s mainly just hard work and dedication,” he concluded.