Faith Kipyegon eyes history with sub-four minute mile attempt in Paris

Kenya’s Faith Kipyegon is aiming to make history tonight in Paris by becoming the first woman to run a mile in under four minutes. The double Olympic champion will attempt the feat at Stade Charléty during a Diamond League event, just a year after setting the current women’s mile world record of 4:07.64.

Kipyegon, 30, has already cemented her legacy as one of the greatest middle-distance runners. Her latest mission pushes the boundaries even further. Speaking ahead of the race, she said, “We’ve broken records before. Now it’s about breaking barriers. I want young girls everywhere to know that nothing is impossible.”

Her coach Patrick Sang, who also trains marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge, expressed confidence. “Faith has trained with patience and consistency. We’ve prepared for this moment for months,” he said.

Organizers have arranged pacemakers and cutting-edge aerodynamic gear to support her run. Weather conditions are expected to be ideal, cool and calm, offering a perfect stage for this attempt.

Kipyegon will run with men and women pacers to help her maintain the required pace from start to finish. The event, dubbed “Breaking Four,” mirrors the effort Kipchoge made in 2019 to run a sub-two-hour marathon. That race took place under controlled conditions and marked a milestone in human endurance.

Back home in Kenya, fans are eagerly waiting. In Keringet, Nakuru County, her hometown, supporters have gathered to watch the event live. Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika praised Kipyegon’s impact, saying, “She continues to inspire not only through her wins but by how she carries the hopes of an entire generation.”

Kipyegon has said this run is more than a race; it’s a message. “Running is about rhythm, belief, and freedom,” she explained. “Tonight, I run for every woman who dares to dream.”

Experts note the challenge of breaking the four-minute barrier. At this level, every second demands precise execution and world-class endurance. The world record progression has stalled for years due to the difficulty of the task.

If she succeeds, Kipyegon will not only make history but also redefine what’s possible for women in athletics. She would join the ranks of Roger Bannister and Eliud Kipchoge, athletes who transcended sport and inspired millions.

With a strong support team and her trademark calm determination, Kipyegon is ready to give it her all. Whether or not she achieves the sub-four milestone tonight, her pursuit alone marks a defining moment in athletics.