Beatrice Chebet and Faith Kipyegon won gold and silver respectively during the women’s 5,000m final of the ongoing Olympic Games in Paris,France.
In what was a twist and turn of events Faith Kipyegon was disqualified for what the officials termed as lane infringement and obstruction but was later reinstated after Kenyan Athletics officials successfully lodged an appeal.
A statement released by World Athletics confirmed the decision to reinstate Kipyegon’s silver after she appeared to be shoved by Ethiopia’s Gudaf Tsegay during the race.
Jury of Appeal’s Decision submitted on 05 Aug 2024 at 23:16
Decision of the Jury of Appeal
The Jury of Appeal has reviewed all available evidence
and agreed there was significant contact between, and by 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 would carry throughout the remainder of the Games. The Jury of Appeal has reinstated Kenyan athlete Faith Kipyegon to the silver medal position in the womens 5000m.
The 24-year-old produced a thrilling finish to cross the line in 14 minutes and 28.56 seconds ahead of compatriot Kipyegon.
‘’I think what happened was that I was infront and she tried to push me inside and tol;d her to come slowly I would excuse her but she kept pushing and I wondered where I would go’’ Said Faith.
Kipyegon will now quickly need to refocus on her bid to win a third consecutive Olympic gold in the women’s 1500m.
The 30-year-old is scheduled to return to the track on Tuesday morning in the second of of three heats in round one.
