Faith Kipyegon’s audacious attempt to shatter the sub-four-minute mile for women, came heartbreakingly close on Thursday night in Paris, but it ended just outside the mark.
Competing at Stade Charléty during the Breaking4 event, Kipyegon crossed the line in a remarkable 4:06.42, the fastest time ever recorded by a woman in the mile. It was 1.22 seconds quicker than her own world record but still shy of the historic milestone.
The 31-year-old Kenyan, supported by a world-class team of 12 pacemakers, Olympic medallists and Diamond League champions, looked in control for much of the race. She completed the third lap in 3:01.84, keeping hopes alive, but the relentless physical toll began to show in the final 400 metres.
Faith Kipyegon ultimately powered through to the finish line before collapsing to the ground, exhausted but proud.
A Mission Beyond the Clock
After the race, Kipyegon took to social media to reflect on her effort.
“I dared to try 💜
#Breaking4 was about showing the world that we have to push ourselves. This one was for all the young girls and women out there to show that you have to believe in yourself in everything you do.”
She expressed gratitude to her team, pacemakers, sponsors, event organisers and global fans for their unwavering support.
While the Ksh13 million prize offered by Athlos founder went unclaimed, the two-time Olympic champion vowed not to give up on the dream.
“I have proven that it is possible, it is only a matter of time. If it is not me, it will be somebody else. I will not lose hope — I will still go for it. I hope I will get it one day,” Kipyegon added.
Chasing History
More than 70 years have passed since Sir Roger Bannister famously broke the men’s four-minute mile in 1954, a feat once likened to reaching the summit of Everest. That same month, Diane Leather became the first woman to run a mile under five minutes.
Kipyegon’s stunning progress over the years, culminating in last year’s world record-breaking 4:07.64 mile, has made what was once unthinkable now feel inevitable. From running barefoot to school in her rural Kenyan village to winning her first global title in 2011 without shoes, her journey has been extraordinary.
On Thursday night, she wore a high-tech aerodynamic skinsuit, aerodynamically engineered sleeves, a custom headband and Nike Victory 2 spikes weighing just 85 grams, featuring carbon fibre plates and air pockets for extra propulsion.
Though the clock didn’t start with a ‘3’ this time, Faith Kipyegon’s relentless spirit has brought the barrier closer to falling.
After a short rest, Kipyegon will shift her focus to the remainder of the season, with preparations underway for the World Championships in Tokyo this September.
