Kip Keino Classic 2026: Gabby Thomas Headlines Historic Floodlit Nyayo Night

Nairobi is about to witness something special. The seventh edition of the Absa Kip Keino Classic, a World Athletics Continental Tour Gold meet, takes centre stage at Nyayo National Stadium on Friday, April 24, and for the first time in the event's history, the action will unfold under floodlights. The evening programme runs from 4pm to 9pm EAT, giving Kenyan fans a taste of the Diamond League atmosphere right here at home.

The headline act is triple Olympic champion Gabby Thomas, who makes her maiden appearance on Kenyan soil. The American superstar will not be running her signature 200m, however — she has opted for the 400m, where she faces a blockbuster showdown with Kenya's own Mercy Oketch, the national outdoor and indoor 400m record holder. Thomas arrives in Nairobi fresh from the Addis Ababa Grand Prix on April 18 and will head to the Botswana Golden Grand Prix on April 26, making this a key stop on her Africa tour.

The men's 100m promises fireworks as Ferdinand Omanyala, Africa's fastest man, looks to reassert his dominance on home turf. He faces a stacked field that includes Canada's Olympic 4x100m relay champion Aaron Brown, American World Relays silver medallist Brandon Hicklin, and South Africa's Gift Leotlela. Omanyala has been rallying fans on social media, urging them to pack Nyayo Stadium for what he promises will be a night to remember.

In the men's 1500m, world and Olympic 800m champion Emmanuel Wanyonyi steps up in distance to test himself against a formidable cast. He will battle former world champion Timothy Cheruiyot, Jonah Koech, Vincent Keter, and Abel Kipsang in what could be the race of the night. Other international stars confirmed include Olympic 400m hurdles champion Dalilah Muhammad, Zambian sprint sensation Muzala Samukonga, and Olympic hammer throw champion Ethan Katzberg.

Absa Bank Kenya has pumped KSh 35 million into this year's edition — their sixth year as title partner, bringing total investment to KSh 196 million. Of that amount, KSh 27 million goes directly to rights fees, ensuring the best athletes in the world have reason to compete in Nairobi. The 2026 programme also introduces WaveLight LED pacing technology, the same system used in elite Diamond League races, which projects target speeds along the inside rail of the track.

New additions to the programme include Under-20 races in the 800m and steeplechase, giving young Kenyan talent a platform alongside the world's best. The 10,000m also makes a return after being absent from most continental competitions. With the historic floodlit setting, world-class technology, and a lineup packed with Olympic and world champions, this Kip Keino Classic is set to be the biggest yet.

Tickets are available online and at the venue. Whether you are watching from the stands at Nyayo or streaming from home, clear your Friday evening schedule — this is one night of athletics you do not want to miss. Kenya proud, always!