Wanyonyi’s 2:11.83 world record ratified before Brussels Diamond League

Emmanuel Wanyonyi’s 2:11.83 world record in the 1000m has been officially ratified by World Athletics, confirming the Kenyan’s achievement before the Diamond League final in Brussels. The mark was set at the Wanda Diamond League meeting in Monaco on July 10.

The performance came in Wanyonyi’s first competitive race over the distance. The Olympic champion became the first man in almost 27 years to set a men’s 1000m world record, adding another major achievement to a rapidly developing career.

Wanyonyi stayed with the pacemakers through 800m before moving to the front. He reached that point in 1:45.11 and then resisted a late challenge from Great Britain’s Jake Wightman to complete the race in record time.

His run removed Noah Ngeny’s previous world record of 2:11.96, established in September 1999. Wanyonyi lowered the Kenyan’s mark by 0.13 seconds, bringing an end to the long period without a new world best in the event.

The ratification gives official status to a result that demonstrated Wanyonyi’s ability beyond his established middle-distance events. It also provides added recognition as he prepares for the Diamond League Meeting final in Brussels.

Wanyonyi’s record was among several performances recently given formal recognition by World Athletics. Uganda’s Jacob Kiplimo had his half marathon world record of 57:20 ratified, while American Ja’Kobe Tharp’s 12.75 in the 110m hurdles was also approved. Those achievements, however, do not alter Wanyonyi’s place as the new official men’s 1000m world-record holder.