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Faith Kipyegon to Attempt First Sub-Four-Minute Mile for Women in Nike's Breaking4 Initiative

The three-time Olympic champion will aim to shatter the iconic barrier on June 26, 2025, in Paris, using advanced technology and pacing strategies.

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FILE PHOTO: Paris 2024 Olympics - Athletics - Women's 1500m Victory Ceremony - Stade de France, Saint-Denis, France - August 10, 2024.  Gold medallist Faith Kipyegon of Kenya celebrates on the podium. REUTERS/Aleksandra Szmigiel/File Photo
Athletics - Diamond League - Brussels - King Baudouin Stadium, Brussels, Belgium - September 14, 2024 Faith Kipyegon of Kenya celebrates after winning the Women's 1500m final REUTERS/Johanna Geron
Athletics - Diamond League - Rome - Stadio Olimpico, Rome, Italy - August 30, 2024 Kenya's Faith Kipyegon celebrates after winning the women's 1500m REUTERS/Remo Casilli

Overview

  • Faith Kipyegon, the current women's mile world record holder at 4:07.64, will attempt to break the four-minute mile barrier on June 26, 2025, at Stade Charléty in Paris.
  • Nike's Breaking4 project will provide Kipyegon with custom-designed spikes, aerodynamic apparel, and advanced pacing support, though any record set will not be officially recognized under World Athletics rules.
  • The attempt builds on lessons from Eliud Kipchoge’s sub-two-hour marathon, incorporating pacemaker formations, wavelight pacing technology, and cutting-edge footwear innovations.
  • Kipyegon, a three-time Olympic gold medalist and mother, frames the attempt as a message of empowerment, aiming to inspire women and girls to pursue ambitious goals.
  • Nike seeks to leverage the initiative to reassert its leadership in performance running technology and innovation after recent market challenges.