Chepkoech, Kasait lead Kenyan charge in Bengaluru

With Kenya’s depth on full display, the duo leads a strong women’s field that also features world leader Brenda Jepchirchir, the fastest woman in the world this year, who clocked 29:25 in Valencia alongside consistent performers Cintia Chepngeno, Nelvin Jepkemboi, Clare Ndiwa and Janeth Chepngetich.

Defending champion Sarah Chelangat from Uganda returns, eyeing back-to-back victories and setting up a familiar Kenya–Uganda showdown — the ever-present “Kalenjin cousins” rivalry.

She will be chasing a feat last achieved by Agnes Tirop in 2018 and 2019. Chelangat claimed victory in 2025 in 31:07 and will look to repeat her success on familiar roads.

“The TCS World 10K Bengaluru is close to my heart, and I would love to triumph here once again,” said Chelangat.

And just as the battle shapes up, Ethiopia arrives in force well in Chaltu Dida and Wede Kefale.
In the men’s race, Uganda’s rising star Harbert Kibet comes in as the man to beat after his blistering 26:39 world-leading mark earlier this season.

Kibet is one of five athletes in the field with sub-27-minute credentials, while an impressive 11 runners have personal bests faster than the Bengaluru course record of 27:38, setting the stage for a potentially record-breaking race.

“It is my first time in India, and at the TCS World 10K Bengaluru I want to make the most of the opportunity as I am in tremendous form,” said Kibet.

Kenya will look to respond through Vincent Kipkorir, Victor Kipruto and Vincent Kimaiyo, with debutante Gilbert Kiprotich also in the mix

while Ethiopia’s depth looms large in Khairi Bejiga, Gemechu Dida, Tadese Worku and two-time world 5000m champion Muktar Edris headline a stacked contingent, while Burundi’s Rodrigue Kwizera returns as a proven threat.