Sawe, Kipyegon included in TIME 100’s most influential people in sports
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Reading Time: 2min | Thu. 11.06.26. | 08:13
The recognition comes after a remarkable period for both athletes, whose performances have continued to push the boundaries of excellence on the track and roads
Athletics stars Faith Kipyegon and Sabastian Sawe have been named among the world's most influential figures in sport after earning places on the prestigious TIME100 Most Influential People in Sports list.
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The recognition comes after a remarkable period for both athletes, whose performances have continued to push the boundaries of excellence on the track and roads.
Sawe's inclusion follows a historic breakthrough in marathon running that stunned the athletics world. The Kenyan distance runner became the first athlete to run a marathon in under two hours in an official, record-eligible race when he clocked 1:59:30 at the London Marathon.
His sensational run not only secured victory but also eclipsed the previous world record set by the late Kelvin Kiptum by more than a minute. Sawe's performance is widely regarded as one of the greatest achievements in endurance sport, ending decades of debate over whether a sub-two-hour marathon could be achieved under standard competition conditions.
The achievement elevated the 30-year-old into the global spotlight and cemented his status as one of the sport's leading figures.
Kipyegon, meanwhile, continues to strengthen her reputation as one of the greatest middle-distance runners in history.
The triple Olympic champion began her season by venturing onto the roads, producing an impressive 29:46 during her 10km debut at the Monaco Run. She later returned to the track and claimed victory in the 5,000m at the Shanghai Diamond League, posting a world-leading 14:24.14.
Her recent accomplishments build on an extraordinary 2025 campaign in which she lowered her own 1500m world record to 3:48.68 before capturing a fifth world title in the event.
Beyond her achievements on the track, Kipyegon's recognition also reflects her influence away from competition. The mother of one has become an inspiration to athletes around the world.
The TIME100 list celebrates individuals whose impact extends beyond results and statistics, recognising those shaping the future of sport through achievement, leadership and influence.
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The 2026 edition features prominent names from across the sporting landscape. Among them is basketball executive Masai Ujiri, whose efforts to grow the game across Africa and his recent leadership role with the Dallas Mavericks earned widespread recognition.
NBA superstars LeBron James and Stephen Curry were also honoured for their continued excellence and influence both on and off the court.
Elsewhere, UFC president Dana White was recognised for helping transform mixed martial arts into a global commercial powerhouse, while boxing champion Amanda Serrano was celebrated for her contribution to advancing opportunities and visibility for women in boxing.
