Faith Kipyegon Eyes Historic Sub-Four Minute Mile in Paris

(The Post News)– Faith Kipyegon is on the brink of redefining the limits of women’s middle-distance running. On Thursday evening, the Kenyan icon will attempt to become the first woman to unofficially run a mile in under four minutes, an ambitious goal that echoes Eliud Kipchoge’s famous sub-two-hour marathon feat.

The 31-year-old, who has already etched her name into the record books with triple Olympic and world titles in the 1 500 metres, will make her attempt at Paris’s Stade Charléty, a track where she’s already shattered the 1 500 m and 5 000 m world records. For Kipyegon, it’s more than just a race; it’s a return to a venue she says carries “special energy”.

Backed by Nike’s “Breaking4” project, the attempt will rely on more than just raw talent. Kipyegon will run in specially engineered racing gear, including ultra-light super-spikes, and will benefit from the aerodynamic strategy of computer-positioned pacers. Just like Kipchoge, she’ll be shielded by rotating support runners designed to reduce drag and maintain relentless pace.

To make history, Kipyegon must slice over seven seconds off her current world best of 4:07.64, a record she set in 2023 by obliterating Sifan Hassan’s previous mark. That means she’ll need to run each lap faster than ever before.

With her rich track record, her bond with Paris, and cutting-edge support, Kipyegon is poised to chase a moment that could redefine women’s athletics.