As Guinness World Records marks 70 days until a historic milestone, its 70th anniversary on 27 August 2025 the world’s fastest man, Usain Bolt, has today been officially named a Guinness World Records ICON, joining a select group of individuals whose world record achievements have transcended their field and inspired people across the globe.
With his electrifying performances and boundless charisma, Usain Bolt didn’t just break records, he redefined what we thought was humanly possible. His most iconic achievements, which still stand today, include:
- Fastest 100 metres58 seconds, set at the 2009 IAAF World Championships in Berlin
- Fastest 200 metres19 seconds, also at the 2009 World Championships
From Olympic gold medals to unforgettable world record moments, Bolt has become a symbol of sporting greatness and global inspiration.
In addition to these legendary feats, Usain Bolt has earned 15 Guinness World Records titles that reflect both his sporting prowess and his powerful connection with fans worldwide:
- Youngest male junior world champion 15 years 332 days, at the 2002 World Junior Championships
- Fastest 4 × 100 metres relay84 seconds, at the 2012 London Olympics
- Most IAAF World Athlete of the Year awards 6 times, between 2008 and 2016
Usain was presented his ICON certificate on a visit to the UK when GWR Editor-In-Chief Craig Glenday surprised him at the Edwardian hotel in Manchester. Receiving his ICON certificate in front of a wall of his Guinness World Records titles Bolt said:
“I’m always happy to be recognised by Guinness World Records. I’m honoured to be part of the greats, being an ICON is what I strive for. It shows that the work I put in really matters, I’m happy to be part of it.”
“Usain Bolt is more than just a record-holder, he’s a global ICON who has demonstrated what the human body and spirit are capable of,” said Craig Glenday, Editor in Chief at Guinness World Records, “As we celebrate 70 years of record-breaking, we’re honoured to recognise Usain’s extraordinary journey and invite people everywhere to get inspired, get involved and be part of it.”
What is a Guinness World Records ICON?
Guinness World Records ICONs are select individuals who have gone beyond simply setting records, they have become cultural touchstones, inspiring millions through achievements that push limits and create lasting legacies.
From science and tech innovators to sports stars, creatives, activists and uniquely GWR record-breakers, these are the pioneers, the lifelong obsessives, the dedicated and the dreamers who have come to define what it means to earn a place in Guinness World Records history. Previous ICONS include double amputee triathlete Billy Monger, Polar explorer Preet Chandi, global superstar Taylor Swift and the tallest and shortest women in the world Rumeysa Gelgi and Jyoti Amge.
This announcement is part of the year-long GWR70: Be Part of It anniversary brand campaign, a celebration of record-breaking past and present, inspiring everyone, everywhere to try a record-breaking challenge because nothing beats taking part.
About GWR70: Be Part of It
On 27 August 1955, Guinness World Records published its very first book in London, setting off a movement that has inspired millions to test their limits. In 2025, we celebrate 70 record-breaking years with the global GWR70: Be Part of It campaign; a rallying call encouraging people of all ages and backgrounds to discover the joy of attempting a record.
Because whether you set a new world record or simply surprise yourself, the message is simple: Nothing beats taking part.
Discover More
Ready to learn more about our 70th anniversary celebrations and how you can join the fun? Find out more about the GWR70: Be Part of It campaign.
