Faith Kipyegon Backs Chepchirchir, Ewoi to Carry Kenya’s 1500 m Legacy

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

The Latest

• 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

Context in Brief

• 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)

Voices and Stakeholders

• 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.

Implications

• 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.

What to Watch

• 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.