Kibet leads Kenyan charge into World Athletics Indoor Champs semis

2022 World Indoor silver medallist Noah Kibet led Kenya’s charge on day one of the World Athletics Indoor Championships Kujawy Pomorze 2026, storming into the men’s 800m semi-finals with a commanding display in Toruń, Poland.

Kibet clocked 1:45.84 to win heat six ahead of Poland’s Maciej Wyderka, who finished second in 1:46.15. The 21-year-old, competing at his fourth global indoor championships, looked composed as he signalled intent for another podium push.

In the 400m, national indoor record holder Mercy Oketch produced a strong run to qualify for the women’s semi-finals, clocking 51.08 seconds to finish second in heat six behind Portugal’s Lurdes Gloria Manuel.

“Let’s wait for the semi-finals. Just hope for the best. You know, it's my first time, so I'm still learning and gaining more experience,” said Oketch.

Her compatriot Brian Tinega also impressed on his debut, advancing to the men’s 400m semi-finals after posting 46.21 seconds to finish second in heat five behind Canada’s Christopher Morales Williams, who won in 45.21.

“I was hoping to run fast, but because there were two spots to qualify, I decided to lower my speed so that I could qualify,” said Tinega.

“In Africa, we don't have indoor tracks, so it is hard to get facilities. That’s why I decided to go to school in the US so I can get good facilities and training,” he added.

However, it was the end of the road for Kenya’s 800m debutantes Rosemary Longisa and Gladys Chepngetich, who both bowed out in the heats after finishing outside the qualification spots.

Longisa clocked 2:03.48 in a tough opening heat won by Britain’s Olympic champion Keely Hodgkinson in 2:00.32.

“The race was good. It was a bit tough, but it was a good experience. I felt good, but unfortunately, I couldn’t make it to the semi-finals. I’m still grateful to represent my country,” said Longisa.

Chepngetich posted 2:02.23 in heat two, which was won by Norway’s Pernille Karlsen Antonsen in 2:00.77.

“It was my debut indoors and running with professional athletes is kind of hard, but I tried,” said Chepngetich.

“I feel like I was tired from the NCAA and also I’ve been travelling since Sunday. I pushed myself, and even though I didn’t make the semis, I believe I’ll come back stronger.”

Kenya’s campaign continues later tonight with Susan Ejore set for the women’s 1500m at 8:42pm, before Festus Lagat closes the day in the men’s race at 8:54pm.