Kenya’s campaign at the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo got off to a painful start after the Mixed 4x400m relay team was dramatically disqualified despite clocking an African record in the heats.
The team, made up of Brian Tinega, Mercy Adongo, Allan Kipyego and anchored by world 800m champion Mary Moraa, thrilled fans with an electrifying performance in Heat 2. They crossed the line in 3:10.73, shattering the African record of 3:11.16 that had been set earlier in Heat 1. The time saw them finish second behind Belgium and secure what looked like a comfortable place in the final.
Celebrations quickly turned to heartbreak, however, as officials later confirmed the disqualification. Kenya was cited for violating World Athletics Rule TR17.23, which covers lane infringements in races run in lanes. It was determined that Allan Kipyego had stepped completely over the lane line at the bend, an error that led to the team’s direct elimination from the event.
The ruling came as a bitter blow for Kenya, who had been widely tipped to contend for a medal in the mixed relay. Moraa, showcasing her trademark speed and composure on the anchor leg, had powered the team into a strong second place, sparking hope of a podium finish. Instead, the violation erased what would have been a landmark achievement for the country in the relatively new event.
The disqualification also had wider implications. With Kenya removed from the final, hosts Japan earned a slot as one of the best losers, while the African record reverts to South Africa. Kenya was expected to file an appeal against the ruling, though lane infringement decisions are rarely overturned once confirmed.
This setback has increased pressure on the rest of Team Kenya to deliver in Tokyo. Much attention will now shift to distance running star Beatrice Chebet, who is seen as one of the strongest prospects for securing Kenya’s first gold medal at the Championships.
Despite the disappointment, Kenya’s spirited performance in the heats showed the potential of the country’s sprinters, who are gradually beginning to complement the nation’s established dominance in middle and long-distance events. The challenge will now be to regroup quickly and refocus as the Championships continue.
