Kenyan youngster eyes success in senior ranks after gold medal at World Under 20 Championships

Kenyan youngster eyes success in senior ranks after gold medal at World Under 20 Championships
Frankline Kibet wins the men's 5000m at the World Under 20 Championships. PHOTO/ATHLETICS KENYA

NAIROBI, Kenya, August 13, 2026 – Not merely content with being a World Under 20 champion, Franklin Kibet has earmarked the 2027 World Championships in Beijing and the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028 as his next stomping ground.

The 19-year-old says he wants to add to his medal collection with an outstanding performances at the two major competitions.

“From next year I will be moving to the senior ranks and I want to do my ultimate best. By the grace of God, I hope to make the team for the World Championships and make the podium. I also want to be at the Los Angeles Olympics,” Kibet said.

Kibet clocked 13:28.27 to win Kenya’s first gold at the age-grade championships, his second title in less than a year after clinching the World Cross Country Championships in the under 20 men’s category in Florida.

The youngster also finished second in the men’s 5000m at the Kip Keino Classic at the Nyayo Stadium, clocking 13:10.70.