Faith Kipyegon and Beatrice Chebet received KSh 5 million each from the Ministry of Sports.
Kenya’s track and field royalty, Faith Kipyegon and Beatrice Chebet, have once again proven why the world turns to Kenya for long-distance greatness.
The two stars were each awarded KSh 5 million by the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports following their sensational, record-breaking performances at the Prefontaine Classic in Eugene, Oregon, part of the Diamond League.
Kipyegon lit up the track in Eugene with a world-record time of 3:48.68 in the 1500 metres, smashing the previous records set in 2023 and 2024.
“It was tough, but I am so proud of what I’ve done… and I’m going to keep on trying, dreaming, and pursuing big goals,”
Faith Kipyegon
The two-time Olympic champion used the moment to inspire the next generation:
“I want to show the world, and especially women, that you have to dare to try.”
Beatrice Chebet stunned the world by becoming the first woman ever to break the 14-minute barrier in the 5000m, finishing in 13:58.06, a powerful statement and a world record of her own.
“When I was coming here to Eugene, I was coming to prepare to run a world record… I said: ‘If Faith is trying, why not me?’”
Beatrice Chebet
Chebet now holds records in both the 5000m and the 10,000m, cementing her place among Kenya’s most decorated distance runners.
The Ministry hailed the two athletes as national icons, applauding their commitment, discipline, and ability to elevate Kenya’s reputation on the global stage.
The cash awards not only recognise their success but also signal the government’s renewed focus on supporting elite athletes.
“You’ve made us proud. Kenya stands tall again,”
Ministry of Sports Representative
With the 2025 World Athletics Championships and the 2028 Olympics on the horizon, Kipyegon and Chebet’s blazing form gives fans every reason to believe Kenya will continue dominating the track.
