Africa’s fastest man, Ferdinand Omanyala, declined a much-hyped race challenge from popular American streamer iShowSpeed during the YouTuber’s recent visit to Kenya, citing professional obligations.

• Omanyala stated, “I am not an influencer. I have big companies like Toyota and Adidas that pay me to run. I can’t do an exhibition run.”
• iShowSpeed is known for staging spontaneous races with athletes and celebrities globally.
• Omanyala’s decision highlights the distinction between elite athletics and internet entertainment, as his career is governed by training schedules, sponsorship contracts, and international athletics regulations.