Faith Kipyegon to Attempt First-Ever Women’s Sub-4 Minute Mile

• Apr 23, 2025

Kenyan middle-distance running star Faith Kipyegon is preparing to take on one of the most ambitious challenges in athletics—breaking the four-minute barrier in the women’s mile.

While details of the attempt have not yet been fully disclosed, the setup is expected to resemble previous groundbreaking efforts in distance running. Much like Eliud Kipchoge’s historic sub-two-hour marathon in Vienna in 2019, Kipyegon’s attempt will likely involve several non-traditional aids to help her reach the milestone.

These aids are expected to include rotating “in and out” pacemakers to maintain pace throughout the race, cutting-edge running shoes and equipment designed to boost performance, and potentially even pacing lights or track technology to assist with timing. She will also have the benefit of top-level physiological and psychological support in preparation for the run.

However, just as Kipchoge’s 1:59:40.2 marathon time was not officially recognized by World Athletics due to the controlled environment and use of pacers, any record Kipyegon sets during this attempt would not be considered an official world record. It would still, however, be a massive symbolic achievement for women’s athletics, as no woman has ever officially run a mile in under four minutes.

Kipyegon is already considered one of the greatest female middle-distance runners in history. She is a double Olympic gold medalist in the 1500 meters and the current world record holder in the same event. Her dominance in races over the years has made her a household name in track and field circles, and this latest challenge could further cement her legacy as a pioneer in the sport.

The attempt would represent not just a personal milestone but also a broader moment for women’s athletics, as it pushes the perceived limits of what is possible. Many will be watching closely as Faith Kipyegon lines up to chase history and inspire the next generation of runners.