Faith Kipyegon launched her 2026 track campaign in style after storming to victory in the women’s 5,000m at the Shanghai Diamond League on Saturday, producing the fastest time in the world this season.

Kipyegon finished the race in 14:24.14 after a tightly contested finish that was decided in the final metres. Ethiopia’s Likina Amebaw pushed her all the way to the line, finishing a close second in 14:24.21, while compatriot Senayet Getachew completed an all-East African podium in 14:24.71.

From the early laps, the runners stayed close together, with no one able to break away as they went through the middle stages still tightly packed and running at a steady pace.

It was only in the closing stages that the race began to stretch, as the pace increased and the bell signalled the final lap. The sprint for the finish followed, and Kipyegon stayed composed to come through and take the win on the line.
Behind the lead trio, Kenya’s Caroline Nyaga finished ninth in 14:36.55, while Maurine Chebor placed 11th in 14:39.31, the latter improving on her personal best.

Speaking after the win , She Said

” I feel so good. It was a good race. A positive season opener. My main goal was to see where we are placed and where we can adjust and continue with the same spirit,”

The result continues a strong start to Kipyegon’s year on the road and track, following a 10km victory in Monaco in 29:47 in February, which had already hinted at sharp early-season conditioning.
The win also reinforces Kipyegon’s continued range across middle and long distance events, even as she remains best known for her dominance in the 1,500m and her record-breaking exploits over longer distances.

A four-time world 1,500m champion and former 5,000m world record holder, Kipyegon remains one of the few athletes capable of competing at the very top level across both events, with multiple global medals to her name.