All eyes are on Paris as Faith Kipyegon, Kenya’s triple Olympic and world champion, prepares to make history by breaking the four-minute mile—a barrier no woman has ever crossed. On June 26, 2025, at Stade Charlety, Kipyegon will attempt the unthinkable as part of Nike’s groundbreaking “Breaking4” project, aiming to become the first female athlete to run a mile in under four minutes. This event, streamed live to millions worldwide, is not just a race but a celebration of human potential and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
Kipyegon, already the world record holder in the women’s mile at 4:07.64, faces a monumental challenge: shaving over seven seconds off her own best time. To put this in perspective, she needs to run nearly four seconds faster per lap than ever before. The attempt, much like Eliud Kipchoge’s sub-two-hour marathon, will be a carefully orchestrated time trial, with every possible advantage—cutting-edge gear, advanced pacing strategies, and optimal conditions—designed to help her succeed.
Key Points: Faith Kipyegon Breaking 4
- Event: Nike “Breaking4” Mile Time Trial
- Date: June 26, 2025
- Location: Stade Charlety, Paris
- Athlete: Faith Kipyegon, 31, Kenya
- Goal: First woman to run a mile under four minutes
- Current Record: 4:07.64 (Kipyegon)
- Support: Custom Nike super-spikes, aerodynamic suit, male pacemakers, computer-optimized drafting
- Streaming: Live on Nike’s YouTube, Instagram, and Prime Video
The Science and Strategy Behind Breaking 4
The “Breaking4” project is the result of meticulous planning and scientific innovation. Inspired by Nike’s “Breaking2” marathon project, which helped Kipchoge push the limits of endurance, this attempt is tailored to maximize every possible advantage for Kipyegon. Researchers from the University of Colorado Boulder have modeled the optimal conditions for a sub-four-minute mile, emphasizing the importance of drafting behind a team of pacemakers to reduce wind resistance and maintain an even, blistering pace.
Kipyegon will wear Nike’s latest Victory Elite FK spikes, weighing just 85 grams, and a custom 3D-printed sports bra paired with an aerodynamic speed suit. These innovations are not just about comfort—they’re engineered to shave precious milliseconds off each lap. The real game-changer, however, is the strategy of using rotating male pacemakers, who will enter and exit the race at precise intervals to keep Kipyegon fresh and shielded from the wind.
The event is scheduled for the early evening, when weather conditions in Paris are expected to be ideal. If everything aligns—temperature, humidity, and wind—Kipyegon will have the best possible shot at making history.
Why Faith Kipyegon Breaking 4 Matters
A sub-four-minute mile for women is more than just a number—it’s a symbol of progress, equality, and the breaking of long-standing barriers. For decades, the four-minute mile was considered an insurmountable benchmark for female athletes. Kipyegon’s attempt, backed by cutting-edge technology and rigorous scientific research, challenges outdated notions about the limits of women’s athletic performance.
Beyond the track, this event is a powerful statement for women in sports. Nike’s investment in Kipyegon’s quest is also a strategic move to re-engage female consumers, many of whom have turned to other brands in recent years. By showcasing the achievements of a female icon, Nike hopes to inspire a new generation of women runners and reclaim its place as the leading brand in women’s athletic apparel.
How to Watch Faith Kipyegon Breaking 4
Millions around the world will tune in to witness this historic moment. The event is being streamed live on Nike’s YouTube and Instagram channels, as well as on Prime Video, starting at 6:15 pm BST (1:15 pm ET). Coverage includes expert commentary, behind-the-scenes footage, and interviews with Kipyegon and her team. A documentary charting her journey will also be available on Prime Video after the event.
The Road to Breaking 4: Training, Mentorship, and Mindset
Kipyegon’s preparation for this attempt has been nothing short of extraordinary. She has spent months training at altitude in Kenya, honing her speed and endurance under the guidance of coach Patrick Sang and alongside mentor Eliud Kipchoge. The NN Running Team, known for producing some of the world’s greatest distance runners, has provided Kipyegon with a supportive environment and access to the latest training methods.
Mental strength has been a recurring theme in Kipyegon’s interviews. “Being mentally strong and believing in everything I do is crucial for me,” she has said. This mindset, combined with her physical prowess and the support of her team, gives her a real chance at making history.
Kipyegon’s journey is also a story of resilience and inspiration. As a three-time Olympic champion and world record holder, she has already cemented her legacy. But breaking the four-minute mile would elevate her status to that of a true trailblazer, inspiring girls and women everywhere to dream bigger and push harder.
What Happens If She Succeeds—Or Falls Short?
If Kipyegon crosses the finish line in under four minutes, her achievement will be celebrated worldwide. However, due to the controlled conditions and use of pacemakers, the time may not be recognized as an official world record by World Athletics. Still, the symbolic significance of the feat cannot be overstated.
Even if she falls short, Kipyegon’s attempt will have already made history. The mere fact that a woman is now within striking distance of the four-minute mile is a testament to the progress of women’s athletics. As one researcher put it, “It’s only a matter of time.”
Join the Conversation and Witness History
Faith Kipyegon’s attempt to break the four-minute mile is more than just a race—it’s a moment that could redefine what’s possible for women in sports. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to the world of athletics, this is an event you won’t want to miss. Tune in, cheer her on, and be part of history as Faith Kipyegon aims for the impossible.