Ferdinand Omanyala explains why he skipped a race with iShowSpeed. He says his career depends fully on staying fit and competitive
Kenyan sprint star Ferdinand Omanyala has spoken out on why he chose not to take part in a much-talked-about race against American YouTuber iShowSpeed during the influencer’s recent visit to Nairobi.
The race idea had excited fans online, with many hoping to see athletics and digital entertainment collide in what could have been a viral moment.
Speaking on Monday, January 12, Omanyala made it clear that his decision was based on protecting his profession. He said running is not a hobby or a content idea for him, but his main source of income.
Unlike influencers who can continue working even after an injury, Omanyala noted that a single setback on the track could affect his entire career.
The African 100m champion explained that informal races carry real danger, especially when they are not part of a professional setup.
He said even a minor injury could interfere with training, competitions, and agreements with major sponsors who rely on his performance.
Omanyala revealed that global brands invest in him because of his speed and results, not entertainment stunts. He added that he must always think about the bigger picture before taking risks outside official competitions.
For him, staying healthy is not optional but a requirement tied directly to his livelihood.
Across the country, many fans had been waiting to see if the race would happen, with some predicting it could break livestream view records in Kenya.
The possible matchup had stirred excitement by blending sports, youth culture, and online influence.
iShowSpeed was in Nairobi as part of his “Speed Does Africa” tour, which focuses on highlighting African cities, culture, and creative talent through live streams and public interactions.
While the race did not happen, the visit still drew massive attention and online engagement.
Omanyala’s remarks draw a clear line between professional sport and online entertainment, showing why top athletes often avoid unplanned physical challenges.
For the sprinter, protecting his body remains the top priority as he continues to represent Kenya on the global stage.
