Faith Kipyegon Explains Why Her Track Season Opener Will Be Different After 10km Race

Triple Olympic champion Faith Kipyegon will launch her 2026 track and field season in the women's 5000m, opting to step away from her signature 1500m event for her first race.

The Kenyan track icon is set to compete in the 12-and-a-half-lap race at the Shanghai Diamond League on May 16, a decision she says is aimed at testing her limits early in the year.

"I wanted to challenge myself early in the season and build strength," Kipyegon explained in an interview with the Wanda Diamond League.

"The 5000m is a great distance for that, and Shanghai is always a fantastic place to compete. I like coming to China and the timing fits perfectly into my program."

At 31, Kipyegon has already established herself as the greatest 1500m runner in history, boasting three Olympic gold medals and four world titles. She has also shattered the world record in the event three times, most recently clocking 3:48.68 at last year's Prefontaine Classic.

However, Kipyegon is also a formidable force in the 5000m. In 2023, she made history at the World Championships in Budapest by becoming the first woman to win both the 1500m and 5000m titles at the same competition. That victory followed a stunning world record performance of 14:05.20 at the Paris Diamond League.

More recently, she secured a silver medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics, finishing behind fellow Kenyan Beatrice Chebet in a dramatic final. She also claimed silver at last year's World Championships in Tokyo, where Chebet took the title.

Looking ahead to Shanghai, Faith Kipyegon emphasised that the 5000m offers a unique test of her abilities.

"The 5000m pushes me in a different way. It’s about patience, rhythm, and knowing when to make your move. I enjoy that challenge," she said. "My goal is to run a strong race, test my fitness, and start the season on a positive note."

As a global superstar, Kipyegon's presence guarantees excitement, with fans always anticipating a potential world record attempt whenever she steps on the track.

The mile world record holder has promised to deliver a compelling performance as she continues to push her boundaries.

"I want to keep improving, stay consistent, and give my best in every race," Kipyegon added. "Last year showed me that I can continue to push my limits, that I enjoy challenges outside my comfort zone. And I need to continue improving as we are currently racing with such a strong group of girls in every race. I have still lots to prove so I’m excited for what’s ahead."