Kenya has changed its approach to how national athletes are flown home after winning medals at international competitions, ensuring they now travel business class.
The move comes after public outcry over Olympic marathon champion Peres Jepchirchir returning from the Tokyo World Championships in economy class, despite her gold medal performance.
Government officials accompanying the team in Tokyo confirmed that arrangements have been made for all medalists to fly business class.
“The travel arrangements have been done and we intend to fly all the medalists’ business class for their good performance and we believe this will motivate them to work harder,” said Evans Achoki, Secretary of Administration for Sports.
The debate began when a video circulated showing Jepchirchir being celebrated mid-flight with a mini-cake, juice, and warm words from airline staff. “We are very honoured to have you. You have done a fantastic job getting a gold medal for the marathon. Thank you so much,” one crew member said. Another added, “God bless you, and may all your dreams come true. May you keep getting more and more medals for your country.”
Jepchirchir, who has established herself as one of the world’s leading marathoners, received the gesture with a smile. However, many Kenyans on social media expressed that the athlete deserved more than an economy class seat after such a landmark victory.
During the marathon, Jepchirchir engaged Ethiopian rival Tigst Assefa in a sprint finish over the final 50 metres to claim gold in a season-best time of 2:24:43. Assefa finished two seconds behind in 2:24:45, while Uruguay’s Julia Paternain completed the podium in 2:27:23.
The government clarified that this policy applies to all national athletes who win medals at international athletics events, aiming to reward excellence, boost morale, and ensure fairness across disciplines. Officials hope the decision will serve as motivation for athletes to continue excelling on the world stage.
