Middle-distance running sensation Faith Kipyegon has revealed her aspirations to transition into marathon running in the future.

Speaking to the media on the sidelines of the Chepsaita Cross-Country Run in Eldoret on Saturday, December 7, 2024, Kipyegon shared that she is considering long-distance racing as the next chapter of her illustrious career.

“Ntakimbia marathon in future,” she said, indicating her desire to take on the challenge of marathon running.

For now, the reigning Olympic and World Champion is preparing for major 1500-meter races slated for 2025.

“Mi najiprepare, God willing, next year World Championship na Diamond League zenye zinaanza April,” she said.

Faith Kipyegon has enjoyed an unparalleled career in the 1500 meters, with multiple global titles to her name.

She has won three Olympic gold medals (2016, 2020, and 2024) and several World Championships.

Kipyegon made history at the Paris 2024 Olympics by becoming the first athlete ever to win three back-to-back 1500m gold medals, setting a new Olympic record time.

Next generation of athletes

Speaking at the Chepsaita Cross-Country Run, Kipyegon expressed optimism about the next generation of athletes as she watched children run barefoot.

She remarked that the kids running barefoot reminded her of her own journey and noted that they could become the next Faith Kipyegon with the right support.

“Kuona watoto wakikimbia barefoot inanikumbusha miaka zilizopita venye nilikua natumia mguu tupu kukimbia. Sasa mimi ni Olympic champion, world champion, inanifurahisha sana. Hawa watoto, I hope wenye wamewajua wawasupport. Ata kama watapata coaches wazuri, wawasupport. Next Faith Kipyegon in future,” she said.

The triple Olympic champion also underscored the importance of education for athletes.

“Masoma inatusaidia sana kujielewa. Sio kusema ati niache shule alafu nikimbie nipate pesa. Kusoma pia ni muhimu sana sana,” she emphasized.

Femicide

Addressing the rise in cases of femicide, which has claimed the lives of at least three athletes (Agnes Tirop, Damaris Muthee Mutua, and Rebecca Cheptegei), Kipyegon urged female runners in violent relationships to speak out and seek help before other tragedies occur.

“Naweza urge at least wakiwa na shida yoyote wajitokeze waseme, because venye tuko sahi ni kujiexpress. Kama unapitia shida, uambie wenye wanaweza kukusaidia na utatoka kwa shida. Lakini tukijiekelea wenyewe, tunaweza end up kukua na shida kubwa kama zenye zilihappen. Tunakemea sana na tuseme that haitawai happen tena,” she said.