Asbel Kiprop: Faith Kipyegon’s sub-4-minute mile attempt is like moon landing

Former Olympic and triple 1500m world champion Asbel Kiprop says Faith Kipyegon’s attempt to become the first woman to run a mile under four minutes would be comparable in the annals of human achievement to standing on the moon or scaling Everest for the first time.

The historic run dubbed Nike "Breaking 4" project follows the success of Eliud Kipchoge's sub-two-hour marathon —the INEOS 1:59 Challenge —that saw the former world marathon record holder dip 1:59:40.2 on October 12, 2019.

Just like her compatriot, Kipyegon will be aided by "in and out" pacers, new high-tech shoes and kit and other technological, physiological and psychological help that will mean any record would not be officially recognised.

Kipyegon set the current official mile world record of 4:07.64 for the now-rarely run distance in 2023, taking almost five seconds off Sifan Hassan's 2019 mark, so would need a huge leap forward to achieve the landmark time.

“To drop eight seconds from a world record is no joke. It has taken more than 30 years for women to shave that much off the mile. Faith is trying to do it in one night. But if anyone can, it's her.”

Nike’s sports science team has built a high-tech racing kit for her, including the Nike Fly Suit to reduce air drag, the Flyweb Bra for tight support, and the Victory Elite FK spikes designed for pure speed.

“This is the astronomy of our sport,” Kiprop added. “Just like Roger Bannister in 1954 or the moon landing in 1969—these are breakthroughs that shift the way the world thinks. Now, Faith is doing that for women’s sport.”

“After Kipchoge’s sub-two marathon, this is Kenya’s next big moment. It sends a message to the world: we are not done. We are still breaking barriers,” added Kiprop.

As the world waits for June 26, Kipyegon is not just running a mile, she is running for history, for her country, and for every girl who dares to dream beyond the line.

Kipyegon won the Olympic 1,500m title at the 2016, 2020 and 2024 Games and the world title in 2017, 2022 and 2023, when she also took 5,000m gold.

As well as the mile record, she also holds the 1,500m world record of 3:49.04 and barely seemed to take a breath after taking time away from the track to have a baby.