Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya has praised Kenya’s middle-distance queen, Faith Kipyegon, after delivering a sensational performance at the 2026 Diamond League meet in Shanghai, China, clocking a world-leading 5,000 metres time of 14:24.14.
In a post congratulating the multiple Olympic and world champion, Mvurya praised Kipyegon for what he described as a “spectacular” start to her 2026 track season, noting that her performance continues to elevate Kenya’s global reputation in athletics.
“Congratulations, Faith Kipyegon. Heko Shujaa on opening your 2026 track season in spectacular fashion with a world-leading 5000m performance of 14:24.14 at the Diamond League in Shanghai, China,” Mvurya said.
He lauded Kipyegon’s determination, discipline and consistency, saying her ability to continuously push human limits makes her one of the most inspirational athletes of the modern era.
“Faith has once again dared to dream, challenged herself and put to test the limits of her endurance, and today, the world is once again in awe of her greatness,” he said.
Speaker Moses Wetang'ula, in congratulating Faith, said, "Hearty congratulations to Kenya’s own Faith Kipyegon for once again making our nation proud by flying the Kenyan flag high at the Shanghai Diamond League. In a spectacular display of determination, strength, and excellence, Faith stormed to victory in the women’s 5000m race, clocking a world-leading time of 14:24.14 and leading the pack in commanding fashion. Your triumph continues to inspire millions of Kenyans and cements our country’s place among the world’s athletics giants. Congratulations, Champion!"
Kipyegon’s dominant run saw her shatter the previous world-leading mark by nearly 20 seconds, an emphatic statement that signals strong form ahead of a packed international athletics season.
She was followed closely by Ethiopians, Amebaw Likina, who clocked 14:24:21 and Getachew Senayet, who recorded 14:24:71.
The Sports CS said the victory reflects Kenya’s enduring legacy in long-distance running, describing Kipyegon as a symbol of national pride and excellence on the global stage.
“Kenya proudly celebrates your remarkable achievement, endurance, and unwavering pursuit of excellence,” Mvurya added.
Kipyegon, who has consistently dominated middle and long-distance events over the years, once again demonstrated her tactical brilliance and unmatched finishing speed, pulling away from a strong international field in the final laps of the race.
Her performance in Shanghai has sparked excitement among athletics fans and experts, many of whom view the time as an early indicator of a potentially historic season ahead.
Reacting after the win, Kipyegon expressed her delight after the race, saying the victory was a positive way to begin her season.
“Opening the season with a win feels good, thank you Shanghai,” she wrote.
The victory also reinforces Kenya’s strong presence in global athletics, particularly in middle and long-distance events, where the country continues to produce world-leading performances year after year.
As the 2026 athletics season gathers momentum, attention now turns to her next races.
