Ulinzi Sports Complex Confirmed Ready for Kip Keino Classic After Certification Review
Amid earlier uncertainties, Ulinzi Sports Complex has been officially cleared to host the sixth edition of the Kip Keino Classic, according to Athletics Kenya’s Barnaba Korir. The venue, which replaces the traditional Kasarani and Nyayo stadiums currently under renovation, will now take center stage on Saturday, May 31.
Why the Venue Change Was Necessary
The Moi International Sports Stadium, Kasarani hosted the inaugural Kip Keino Classic in 2021 and continued for two more editions before the 2024 event shifted to Nyayo National Stadium. However, with both main venues undergoing major upgrades, organizers were forced to look elsewhere.
This year, the Ulinzi Sports Complex, located in Lang’ata, Nairobi, emerged as the only viable option, sparking concerns about its readiness and compliance with World Athletics certification standards.
World Athletics Certification Was Key
One of the key issues was ensuring that Ulinzi met all World Athletics regulations, which is vital for any records set during the event to be officially recognized.
“We started the certification process when we learned Nyayo would not host the event. Everything is on course, and I can assure you the stadium is ready,” said Barnaba Korir during a press briefing.
Korir confirmed that Athletics Kenya engaged with World Athletics, bringing in a certification expert from Germany to verify the facility’s compliance.
“We’ve done all the calculations and assessments. A meeting with World Athletics officials yesterday confirmed that everything looks good.”
Star-Studded Athlete Line-Up Confirmed
With the venue now approved, the stage is set for a blockbuster event. The Kip Keino Classic 2025 has attracted top-tier names, including:
- Ferdinand Omanyala – Africa’s fastest man
- Bayanda Walaza – South African sprint sensation
- Julius Yego – 2016 Rio Olympics silver medallist
- Anderson Peters – Two-time world javelin champion
“We expect fast times. The athletes are ready, and with the venue certified, it’s all systems go,” Korir added.
What It Means for the Future
The successful certification of Ulinzi Sports Complex not only saves the 2025 edition of the Kip Keino Classic but also introduces a new world-class venue for Kenyan and international athletics.
Its approval underlines Kenya’s readiness to host major global events, especially with the AFCON 2027 on the horizon.
Key Takeaways:
- Ulinzi Sports Complex Kip Keino Classic confirmed after meeting certification standards.
- Kasarani and Nyayo unavailable due to renovations.
- Athletics Kenya worked with World Athletics and German experts to ensure compliance.
- Event takes place May 31, featuring Omanyala, Yego, Peters, and Walaza.
- Marks a new chapter for Kenyan athletics infrastructure.
