Ethiopian great Gebrselassie, Tanzania's Simbu confirmed as 2026 SOYA chief guests

Gebrselassie will headline the gala night awards for the second time after he graced the 13th edition in 2016, while Simbu will add flavour to the annual event less than a year since he made history by winning Tanzania’s first-ever World Athletics Championship marathon gold at Tokyo 2025.

Speaking during the media launch on Wednesday, SOYA founder Paul Tergat said inviting the two stars aligns with a broader vision to expand the awards beyond Kenya.

“Over the years, this awards program has become Kenya's most respected platform for celebrating the men and women whose sacrifice, discipline, resilience, and commitment have favourably positioned our national flag globally,” said Tergat.

“Under our 2025–2030 strategy, we see SOYA growing into the East African region and beyond, establishing a platform that reflects the potential and strength of African sport.”

Gebreselassie remains one of the most decorated distance runners in history, with two Olympic gold medals in the 10,000m, four world titles, and the distinction of becoming the first man to run a sub-2:04 marathon at the 2008 Berlin Marathon before retiring in 2015.

Simbu, meanwhile, represents the new generation of African marathon excellence.

Besides his Tokyo glory the Tanzanian won bronze medal in Budapest in 2023 and a Commonwealth Games silver medal from Birmingham 2022.

Their presence is expected to elevate this year’s gala, which celebrates outstanding sports personalities from grassroots to elite levels while promoting the growth of sport across the continent.

“Because African excellence deserves African platforms that can stand on the global stage, we hope to see the SOYA Gala embody this spirit,” he said.

Representing the Ministry of Sports, Deputy Director Beth Wamalwa Yatich reaffirmed government support for initiatives that strengthen athlete development and recognition.

“Through this collaboration, the government reaffirms its commitment to creating structured pathways for talent identification, development, and recognition,” she said.

She added that celebrating athletes not only honours their achievements but also inspires future generations while enhancing Kenya’s standing on the continental and global stage. 

Also present at the launch were SOYA nominations panel chair Chris Mbaisi and rally driver Pauline Sheghu, among other stakeholders.