Faith Kipyegon, one of the most decorated athletes in middle-distance running, will attempt something no woman has ever done—run a mile in under four minutes.
The Kenyan star, 31, will take on the challenge in Paris on 26 June, as part of a special event organised by Nike. Dubbed “Breaking 4,” the race echoes Eliud Kipchoge’s landmark sub-two-hour marathon in 2019.
Kipyegon says this is not just about a time. It’s about a message.
“I’ve won Olympic and World titles,” she told The New York Times. “Now I want to do something that inspires women around the world—to dream bigger.”
She added: “This is for all the girls who think a limit is a finish line.”
Not an Official Record—but Still a Giant Leap
This run will not count as an official world record. Like Kipchoge’s marathon attempt, it will include controlled conditions—rotating pacemakers, laser lights, advanced shoe technology, and potentially wind-shielding formations.
Still, the goal is audacious. Kipyegon’s current world record for the mile stands at 4:07.64. To dip under four minutes, she will need to shave off over seven seconds—a leap no woman has come close to achieving.
Experts say it’s possible, but far from certain.
“She’s the only athlete you could realistically ask to do this,” said Steve Cram, former world champion and BBC athletics commentator. “If anyone can, it’s Faith.”
Inspiration Behind the Attempt
Kipyegon has not just dominated her field. She’s redefined it. A triple Olympic gold medallist in the 1500 metres (2016, 2020, 2024) and three-time world champion, she also holds the 1500m world record of 3:49.04.
She returned to competition after the birth of her daughter in 2018 and has since reached new heights. Motherhood, she says, reshaped her mindset.
“Becoming a mum changed how I think,” she said. “You have to be present. You have to lead by example.”
She now trains under Patrick Sang, who also coaches Kipchoge. The two have known each other for over a decade and share what Kipchoge calls “a belief in the impossible.”
“Faith has the heart for this,” Kipchoge said. “She’s calm, focused, and willing to suffer for a dream.”
Nike’s Role and the Bigger Picture
Nike, which helped engineer Kipchoge’s sub-two project, is again taking the lead. Elliott Hill, the company’s president, said the attempt fits the brand’s mission.
“Faith is a once-in-a-generation athlete,” Hill said. “This challenge reflects what we believe in—removing barriers and chasing what’s never been done.”
Nike has not yet disclosed full details of the setup, but a similar approach to Kipchoge’s race is expected: rotating pacers, cutting-edge shoes, and scientific support from start to finish.
What’s at Stake
The mile is rarely run at the elite level these days, with most top runners focusing on metric distances like the 1500m. But the symbolic power of breaking four minutes remains.
Roger Bannister became the first man to do it in 1954. Diane Leather became the first woman to break five minutes later that same month. The current men’s world record is 3:43.13, held by Hicham El Guerrouj.
Kipyegon’s attempt could reignite interest in the event—and push the limits of women’s endurance running.
“She’s setting a new standard,” said Paula Radcliffe, former marathon world record holder. “Not just physically, but mentally. This is about mindset as much as talent.”
As Kipyegon prepares for the race in Paris, there are no guarantees. Only a vision, a clock, and four laps to make history.
She’s not running for a medal. She’s running for a moment that could redefine what’s possible.
