On June 26, 2025, all eyes in the athletics world will turn to Stade Charléty in Paris, France, as Kenyan middle-distance sensation Faith Kipyegon attempts to achieve a feat once deemed impossible for women: running a mile in under four minutes. This monumental endeavor, dubbed "Breaking4" by her long-time partner Nike, seeks to redefine the boundaries of human potential in women’s sport.
The four-minute mile has long stood as a mythical benchmark in athletics. It was first broken by Roger Bannister in 1954, who ran 3:59.4. In the same year, Diane Leather became the first woman to run a mile in under five minutes, clocking 4:59.6. Yet, seven decades later, the sub-four-minute barrier has remained elusive for female athletes, making Kipyegon’s attempt a truly historic pursuit. (Source: Wikipedia)
Faith Kipyegon is no stranger to breaking records. She currently holds the world record for the mile, set at 4:07.64 on July 21, 2023. She also holds the world record in the 1500 meters with a time of 3:49.04, set in 2024, which roughly translates to a 4:06 mile pace. To achieve the sub-four-minute mile, Kipyegon will need to shave at least 7.65 seconds off her current mile personal best. Her motivation extends beyond personal glory; she aims to further cement her legacy as the most decorated woman middle-distance athlete of all time and inspire future generations. (Source: Nike Newsroom)
The "Breaking4" event is meticulously organized by Nike, mirroring their previous "Breaking2" project where Eliud Kipchoge attempted a sub-two-hour marathon. While designed for optimal performance, it’s important to note that this specific attempt will not be eligible for an official world record due to the controlled conditions. Kipyegon will utilize custom-designed Nike Victory Elite FK spikes, along with a specially engineered speed suit and sports bra, all aimed at maximizing her efficiency. A formidable team of both male and female pacers, including elite athletes like Niels Laros, Grant Fisher, Jemma Reekie, and Cooper Teare, will support her throughout the race. (Source: Wikipedia)
The challenge is immense, and scientific opinions have varied. A study published in the Royal Society Open Science in February 2025 suggested Kipyegon could run approximately 3:59.37 under very specific, ideal conditions, primarily with optimal pacesetters and weather. However, another paper in the Journal of Applied Physiology in April 2025 concluded that "there is no female athlete presently displaying the physiological characteristics required to run a sub-four minute mile." Her recent 1000-meter run on April 26, 2025, where she clocked 2:29.21 (equating to a 4:00.08 mile pace), highlights the narrow margin she must overcome. (Source: Wikipedia)
For fans eager to witness this historic moment, Nike is offering multiple viewing options. Those in Paris can register online to attend the event in person at Stade Charléty. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. CEST on June 26, with programming beginning at 7 p.m. and Kipyegon’s attempt planned for 8 p.m. CEST. For a global audience, a livestream broadcast will be available starting at 7:15 p.m. CEST on June 26 via Nike’s YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, and Douyin accounts, as well as Prime Video. A replay will be available shortly after the attempt. (Source: Nike Newsroom)
Adding to the excitement, Nike and Box To Box Films have produced an immersive, limited-series documentary titled "Breaking4: Faith Kipyegon vs. the 4-Minute Mile." The initial 50-minute episode premiered on June 20, 2025, on Prime Video, with the second episode set to release in July. This series offers an intimate look into Kipyegon’s preparation, showcasing her dedication to pushing the boundaries of human potential. (Source: Nike Newsroom)
As June 26 approaches, the world watches with bated breath to see if Faith Kipyegon can achieve what no woman has before, inspiring a new generation to dream beyond perceived limits.
