Team Kenya breathed a sigh of relief after Faith Kipyegon’s silver medal was reinstated in the women’s 5000m race following a dramatic Monday night at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. The double Olympic and world 1500m champion had been disqualified for allegedly obstructing Ethiopia’s Gudaf Tsegay.
Disqualification Shock
When Kipyegon and debutant Beatrice Chebet were celebrating their achievements, Kipyegon learned that she had been disqualified for violating Rule TR17.2.2 (163.2(b)), which deals with jostling or obstruction. This news shocked viewers worldwide, but it hit Kenyans the hardest.
During the race, Kipyegon outstretched her right arm, making contact with Tsegay with a little more than 800 meters left to go, unbalancing her competitor.
Tsegay shoved back, and Kipyegon struggled to maintain her balance and stay on track at high speed.
Kenyans vented their anger on social media, claiming they had been robbed of the medal. However, Team Kenya officials, led by Team Manager Peter Angwenyi, successfully appealed the decision.
Faith Kipyegon Successful Appeal
“I am so sad for Faith, and I hope justice will be done,” said Chebet, who had won gold.
“Faith did not do anything bad. I think she will get the medal in the end.”
Chebet’s prediction came true at 11:16 pm when Kipyegon was reinstated and absolved of any wrongdoing. The Jury of Appeal also decided to award Kipyegon the silver medal.
“Congratulations to Faith Kipyegon, her silver medal has been reinstated,” Athletics Kenya announced on X.
Tsegay finished ninth.
Tsegay Exposed for Rough Play
Despite Kipyegon’s reinstatement, Sifan Hassan did not hold back in criticizing Tsegay’s tactics. The Ethiopian-born Hassan, expressed frustration over Tsegay’s behavior, claiming it has cost her medals in the past.
Hassan said, “It is always drama with Tsegay. She pushed me last year. She is always pulling and pushing. I feel bad for Faith Kipyegon. I wouldn’t mind if she gets silver back.”
Kipyegon did not speak with reporters as the drama did not allow her enough time to begin a real post-race recovery. She still has to defend her Olympic title in the 1500m. Chebet and Hassan, now bronze medalist, handled the news conference.
Italy’s Nadia Battocletti, who had moved into the medal bracket after Faith’s disqualification, missed the podium finish.
“I’m really happy that Faith got her medal back,” said Hassan.
On that Monday, Team Kenya managed three medals after Mary Moraa grabbed bronze in the women’s 800m race.
Kenyans still have faith in Kipyegon for the 1500m round one race set for 11:20 am, with all eyes on the Stade de France in Paris.
By Vivian K.