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Faith Kipyegon Ends 2026 Season Early Due to Hamstring Injury

Posted : 21 August 2026

Kenyan middle-distance superstar Faith Kipyegon has brought her 2026 season to an early close after confirming that a persistent hamstring injury requires more recovery time. The decision means the three-time Olympic 1,500m champion will miss the inaugural World Athletics Ultimate Championship in Budapest from September 11-13.

Kipyegon revealed that the problem has affected her since the end of May and has taken longer to heal than she initially expected. Rather than risk aggravating the injury, the 32-year-old has opted to step away from competition and concentrate on rehabilitation and rebuilding her fitness.

The Kenyan star had been expected to feature among the elite athletes competing at the new championship, which will bring approximately 400 competitors to Budapest. The event carries a total prize fund of $10 million and is designed to showcase Olympic and world champions alongside other leading performers.

Kipyegon's injury became increasingly evident during July. She finished third in the women's mile at the Prefontaine Classic in Eugene, Oregon, before placing fourth in the 3,000m at the Monaco Diamond League. At the time, she acknowledged that she was not yet operating at full fitness.

Despite the difficult season, Kipyegon remains one of the most decorated athletes in modern middle-distance running. She is a three-time Olympic champion and a four-time world champion over 1,500m, while also holding world records in the 1,500m and mile.

Her withdrawal is a major blow to the first Ultimate Championship, particularly given her status as the reigning Olympic and world 1,500m champion. However, Kipyegon has made clear that her priority is returning fully healthy rather than rushing back to competition.

The Kenyan star ended her announcement on an optimistic note, signalling that she intends to return to racing after giving her body the time it needs to recover.

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