[1] During World War II he falsified his age and served two years with the Soviet Army as a courier.

His first international success came in 1954, when he defeated the favourites – Emil Zátopek and Christopher Chataway – in the 5000 m at the European Championships, setting a new world record.

He lost the world record months later to Chataway (who beat him narrowly), only to take it back 10 days later.

His chief opponent in the 5000 m was British runner Gordon Pirie, who had broken the world record earlier that year.

The 5,000 m final 5 days later ended in a similar fashion, with Kuts leading from start to finish.

[5] Kuts improved the 5000 m world record in 1957 to 13:35.0 minutes, a time which would remain unbeaten until 1965, when it was bettered by Australia's Ron Clarke.