World record holder Faith Kipyegon and her Kenyan compatriot Margaret Chelimo have qualified for the 5000 meters finals after finishing the heat in first and fourth positions, respectively.

They were joined by world silver medalist Beatrice Chebet, who also easily won heat two to secure her place in the final.

Kipyegon clocked 14:57.56 to win the heat, finishing ahead of defending champion Sifan Hassan, who surged from the back of the leading nine to claim second place. Margaret Chelimo finished fourth, earning her spot in the final as well.

Kipyegon, making her debut in the 5000m at the Olympics, hopes to replicate her Budapest performance, where she won both the 5000m and her specialty, the 1500m.

This year’s 5000m women’s final, set for August 5, promises to be a thrilling event as the best middle-distance runners clash for the title.

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