The World Athletics has announced the reinstatement of Faith Kipyegon’s silver medal, which was initially taken from her after an incident involving the 1500m world record holder and Ethiopian Gudaf Tsegay during the Women’s 5000m finals at the ongoing Paris Olympics.
In a dramatic turn of events, Faith Kipyegon was disqualified for what officials termed as lane infringement and obstruction but was later reinstated after Kenyan Athletics officials successfully lodged an appeal.
World Athletics confirmed their decision following a jury’s review that suggested the disqualification might have been too harsh.
“The Jury of Appeal has reviewed all available evidence and agreed there was significant contact between the two athletes. The Jury concluded that the incident did not warrant a disqualification. The Jury wishes to make clear that jostling of this nature is never acceptable and therefore recommends that Faith Kipyegon receives a disciplinary yellow card, which will carry throughout the remainder of the Games. The Jury of Appeal has reinstated Kenyan athlete Faith Kipyegon to the silver medal position in the women’s 5000m.”
“I think what happened was that I was in front, and she tried to push me inside. I told her to come slowly, and I would excuse her, but she kept pushing, and I wondered where I would go,” said an emotional Kipyegon.
Kipyegon will be back on Tuesday to compete in the 1500 meters, the second of three heats in round one.
