Loading News Article...
We're loading the full news article for you. This includes the article content, images, author information, and related articles.
/
/
We're loading the full news article for you. This includes the article content, images, author information, and related articles.
Triple world champion Faith Kipyegon says rising runners Nelly Chepchirchir and Dorcas Ewoi are ready to succeed her in the 1500 m when she shifts to longer distances, noting their maturity and Kenya’s need to maintain middle-distance dominance.
Nairobi, Kenya — 2025-09-13 12:00 EAT. Triple world champion and double Olympic gold medallist Faith Kipyegonhas named rising stars Nelly Chepchirchir and Dorcas Ewoi as the runners poised to continue Kenya’s dominance in the women’s 1500 m when she eventually steps up to longer distances
Kipyegon’s statement: Speaking in Nairobi after winning her third world title, Kipyegon praised Chepchirchir and Ewoi for their “maturity and work ethic,” predicting they would handle the pressure of leading Kenya’s middle-distance squad
Future focus: The 31-year-old champion signaled plans to move to the 5,000 m and other longer events in coming seasons while grooming the next generation of 1500 m specialists
Achievements: Kipyegon is widely regarded as the greatest female 1500 m runner, winning Olympic titles in 2016 (Rio), 2021 (Tokyo), and 2024 (Paris) along with world titles in 2017, 2023, and 2025.
World records: She has lowered the 1500 m record three times — 3:49.11 (Florence 2023), 3:49.04 (Paris 2024), and 3:48.68 (Oregon 2025)
Faith Kipyegon: “Chepchirchir and Ewoi are mature and ready. They can take over when I move up and keep Kenya on top.
Athletics observers: Say Kipyegon’s endorsement could boost the confidence of the young athletes ahead of future World Championships and Olympic Games.
Kenya Athletics Federation: Expected to support emerging talent as part of preparations for Paris 2028 and beyond.
Talent transition: Smooth handover critical for maintaining Kenya’s global dominance in the 1500 m.
Youth development: Highlights importance of training camps and mentorship for young athletes.
Global competitiveness: Kenya faces rising competition from Ethiopia, Britain, and the U.S., making succession planning vital.
Performance of Chepchirchir and Ewoi in Diamond League circuits and World Championships qualifiers.
Kipyegon’s debut in 5,000 m races as she transitions to longer distances.
Kenya’s strategy for nurturing middle-distance runners ahead of Paris 2028 Olympics.
