Rising Kenyan athletics star Phanuel Koech is poised to make his debut at the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Japan, from September 13-21, where he aims to bring glory to Kenya in the men’s 1500m. Despite being a debutant, Koech is confident in his rigorous training and ability to compete alongside seasoned athletes.

• Phanuel Koech, 18, holds a World Under-20 record of 3:27.72 in the 1500m.
• He recently stunned 2023 world champion Josh Kerr of Great Britain in a Diamond League meet in London.
• Koech will team up with senior counterparts, including 2029 world champion Timothy Cheruiyot and former World Under-20 winner Reynold Cheruiyot.