As Faith Kipyegon prepares to make history in Paris by attempting to become the first woman to run a mile in under four minutes, American sprint sensation Sha’Carri Richardson has sent her warmest encouragement to the Kenyan star.
The race, scheduled for Thursday night at Stade Charlety, marks a bold challenge for Faith Kipyegon, who currently holds the women’s mile world record at 4:07.64, set in Monaco in 2023.
To break the four-minute barrier, Faith Kipyegon needs to shave nearly eight seconds off her personal best—a formidable but not impossible task.
In the days leading up to the event, messages of support have poured in from around the world, with Richardson among the most prominent voices. On social media, Richardson posted a motivating message reading, “HAVE FAITH #Breaking4,” wishing Kipyegon success in her groundbreaking effort.
Faith Kipyegon’s quest echoes the legendary moment when Roger Bannister broke the four-minute mile in 1954, a barrier once thought unattainable. Now, the Kenyan middle-distance runner aims to achieve what no woman has before, pushing the limits of human performance once again.
Her preparation has been meticulous, with guidance from marathon great Eliud Kipchoge, who himself made history by running a sub-two-hour marathon in 2019.
Nike, Kipyegon’s sponsor, has arranged a team of 12 pacemakers to help her maintain the blistering pace required to reach her goal.
Meanwhile, Faith Kipyegon’s attempt in Paris represents not just a personal milestone but a historic moment for women’s athletics.
With the support of fellow athletes like Sha’Carri Richardson and the backing of a global audience, she stands poised to redefine what is possible on the track.
