Faith Kipyegon & Co to Earn More Millions as Prize Money Raised to Historical Figure
Faith Kipyegon and other elite Kenyan athletes are in line for even heftier cash rewards after the Diamond League announced an increase in the prize money to a historical figure.
Through a statement on Wednesday, September 17, the Diamond League announced an increase – the highest since the competition’s launch in 2010- would apply to all 32 disciplines from next year.
According to the Diamond League, the total amount of prize money paid over the course of the season will increase to US$9,240,000 in 2025 which is equivalent to Ksh1.2 billion.
According to the official communication, Ksh.2,322,720,000 (USD 18 million) including promotional fees, will be paid to athletes over the course of next season, while more millions are being invested in other services for athletes including transport, accommodation and medical expenses.
To further break it down, the total prize money per discipline will be Ksh.3,871,200 (USD 30,000) and Ksh.6,452,000 (USD 50,000) at the series meetings. At the finals, athletes stand to win cash prizes ranging between 7,742,400 (USD 60,000) and Ksh.12,904,000 (USD 100,000).
Tussle between Faith Kipyegon and Gudaf Tsegay at the Olympics.
Photo
World Athletics
The new total sum will be a third higher than in recent seasons, which were rocked by several challenges including the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The Wanda Diamond League remains committed to rewarding the athletes more, whilst at the same time ensuring the long term sustainability of the series,” Diamond League chief executive Petr Stastny said in a statement.
Kipyegon, who powered to victory in the 1500m finals at the Brussels Diamond League last weekend, pocketed Ksh.3,870,000 (USD 30,000). This could increase to KSh 12,904,000 if she replicates her heroics in 2025.
The prize money at the Diamond League is gender-equal, meaning male and female athletes are feted using the exact same rates.
Kipyegon was not the only Kenyan athlete who reaped handsome cash rewards in the latest Diamond League finals.
Beatrice Chebet sprinted to victory in the women’s 5000m, while Emmanuel Wanyonyi won the men’s 800m, outpacing Algeria’s Djamel Sedjati.
One athlete who stole headlines was Faith Cherotich, who claimed victory in the women’s 3000m steeplechase.
The Wanda Diamond League prides itself as one of the most prestigious competitions for world class athletes with 15 meetings in 13 countries on four different continents.
Bronze Medalist Mary Moraa with Gold and Silver Medalist Faith Kipyegon during their welcome party in Eldoret, August 15.
Photo
Team Kenya
