Olympic Champion Joshua Cheptegei Set for Absa Run Your City Durban 10km

The Ugandan superstar, who holds the world records for both the 5000m and 10 000m, is expected to lead a world-class field in Durban as organisers target the fastest 10km race ever run on African soil.

Cheptegei arrives with an outstanding pedigree. The reigning Olympic 10 000m champion from the Paris 2024 Games has won three Olympic gold medals and boasts a personal best of 26:11 over 10 000m.

His presence is expected to help South African and regional runners chase historic times.

South Africa's current 10km record stands at 26:55, set by Maxime Chaumeton in Europe last year.

With a sold-out field and ideal racing conditions expected, hopes are high that Durban could produce something special.

Cheptegei is no stranger to South Africa. In 2018, he produced a memorable performance in Durban, clocking 27:16 to set a new all-comers record.

The world champion says he is looking forward to returning to Durban."South Africa has always been a special place for me to compete," said Cheptegei.

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"There is something unique about racing on African soil, and Durban in particular has an incredible atmosphere, rich culture and passionate people. I have great memories of running there and I'm excited to return."

The Ugandan believes his first race in Durban played a key role in his career after recovering from injury.

"After overcoming injury, that race helped restore my confidence and reinforced my belief that I could compete at the highest level. It gave me a positive mindset and played an important role in shaping the athlete I became."

"Later that year I went on to break the 15km world record, which made 2018 even more memorable for me."

Cheptegei, who is expected to provide strong competition for athletes such as Kabelo Mulaudzi and Lesotho star Kabelo Mofolo, says his focus is simply on enjoying the occasion.

"It would be an honour to see history made on African soil, but my focus is on running a good race, enjoying the experience and celebrating the sport with the people of Durban."

"My message to everyone taking part is to enjoy the moment, have fun and be grateful for the opportunity to race together."

Stillwater Sports founder and managing director Michael Meyer says securing Cheptegei's participation is a major milestone for the event.

"Joshua is one of the greatest distance runners of all time and, without question, the greatest 10km runner of his generation. To once again welcome an athlete of his calibre to the Run Your City Series is truly special."

"This is only the first of a series of announcements that will result in what we believe will be the greatest 10km race ever staged in Africa."