The 2025 Kip Keino Classic, a premier event on the World Athletics Continental Tour Gold calendar, has been relocated to the Ulinzi Sports Complex in Nairobi. This change comes as Nyayo National Stadium remains under renovation, rendering it unavailable for the competition scheduled on May 31.
Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya announced the venue shift, citing delays in completing the new tartan track at Nyayo Stadium. He assured that Ulinzi Sports Complex is undergoing necessary upgrades to meet World Athletics standards and will be ready in time for the event.
“Ulinzi meets the standards set, and where standards have not been met, they will be finalized by Saturday. There is no need for panic,” Mvurya stated during the event launch.
The government has allocated KSh 300 million for the event, emphasizing its commitment to supporting athletics. Additionally, Absa Bank has contributed KSh 60 million as part of its sponsorship.
This year’s Kip Keino Classic will feature 189 athletes, including 59 from Kenya. Notable participants include Africa’s fastest man, Ferdinand Omanyala, who will compete in the 100m sprint, and Swiss sprinter Mujinga Kambundji. Other international stars such as Olympic javelin champion Thomas Röhler and Grenadian thrower Anderson Peters are also expected to compete.
The Ulinzi Sports Complex, with a capacity of 10,000 spectators, will host the event for the first time. Organizers are working to ensure the venue meets all requirements and have urged fans to respect the facility during the event.
Despite concerns from some athletes regarding the venue’s readiness, Mvurya has assured that all necessary measures are being taken to provide a world-class experience. “We are not only hosting but projecting to win and win in a good way,” he added.
Fans can purchase tickets for the event online at www.tikiti.co.ke or by dialing *519*55# on their mobile phones.
