Without Joshua Cheptegei and Jacob Kiplimo, Uganda confident of podium finishes at World Athletics Championships in Tokyo
The championships promise to be a thrilling spectacle, and Uganda's athletes are eager to demonstrate their world-class abilities on the grandest stage.
Uganda has announced a strong provisional lineup of athletes set to represent the nation at the prestigious World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Japan, from September 13 to 21, 2025.
However, stars Joshua Cheptegei and Jacob Kiplimo will miss the 2025 Tokyo World Championships due to personal reasons.
Uganda, renowned for its prowess in middle and long-distance events, is sending a formidable contingent of both seasoned veterans and promising talents, all aiming for podium finishes on the global stage.
The provisional squad underscores Uganda’s deep talent pool, particularly in endurance races, and reflects a strategic blend of experienced medalists and emerging stars poised to make their mark.
Women’s Team Highlights
The women’s contingent features a mix of speed and endurance, led by established champions.
Shida Leni will carry Uganda’s hopes in the 400m, aiming for a strong performance in the sprints. Middle-distance sensation and 2019 World Champion Halima Nakaayi is set to compete in her specialist 800m event, where she will be a strong medal contender.
Aciru Knight will tackle the 1500m, looking to challenge the global elite. In the gruelling 3000m Steeplechase, Olympic gold medalist Peruth Chemutai will be a key figure, expected to vie for another global title.
Uganda’s strength in the longer distances is evident with a robust selection for the 5000m and 10,000m events, featuring Loice Chekwemoi, Sarah Chelangat, Joy Cheptoyek, Rebecca Chelangat, and Stella Chesang.
The women’s Marathon squad is equally robust, with Chelangat Mercyline, Juliet Chekwel, and Chemu poised to tackle the challenging 42.195km race.
Men’s Team Overview
The men’s team features a powerful marathon squad and strong contenders in distance track events.
The men’s Marathon team is particularly strong, led by reigning World Champion Victor Kiplangat. He will be joined by fellow seasoned marathoners Solomon Mutai and Stephen Kissa, promising a strong challenge for medals.
In the 10,000m and 5000m races, Uganda will field a competitive lineup including Abel Chelangat, Dan Kibet, Oscar Chelimo, and Kenneth Kiprop, all capable of reaching the finals and pushing for top positions.
The 800m event will feature Herbert Kibet and Tom Dradriga, who will aim to make their presence felt in a highly competitive field. Leonard Chemutai completes the distance lineup, representing Uganda in the demanding 3000m Steeplechase.
As the countdown to Tokyo 2025 begins, the Ugandan team will now intensify their preparations, with coaches and officials optimistic about their prospects of adding to the nation’s illustrious history in athletics.
