Sorrow as former steeplechase star Jairus Birech dies at 32
Jairus Birech in action during a past race. Phto/Handout.
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Birech, 32, passed away on Thursday night after a period of illness. According to his brother Alex Rotich, speaking on behalf of the family in Kapkagaon, Nandi, the former star hailed from Kesses in Uasin Gishu County.
“He fell ill on September 16, 2025, experiencing severe body pains before being admitted to Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, Eldoret, where doctors diagnosed tuberculosis and spinal meningitis.
The family said funeral arrangements will be announced later. He is survived by his wife and two children.
Born on December 14, 1992, Birech was a dominant force in the 3000m steeplechase, leaving a lasting mark on the global stage.
He captured two Diamond League Trophies (2014 and 2015), won 10 Diamond League races, claimed African Championship gold in Marrakech, and took Commonwealth and World U20 silver medals, as well as a World Cup title.
In 2014, he clocked a blistering 7:58.41 in Brussels, placing him among the all-time top 10 steeplechasers. His victories spanned major Diamond League cities including Rome, Oslo, Lausanne, Birmingham, and Monaco.
Beyond the track, Birech explored road running, producing an impressive 1:00:33 at the 2019 Milan Half Marathon, and he last competed internationally at the 2020 Guadalajara Marathon in Mexico.
Tributes have poured in from across the athletics community. Kesses MP Julius Rutto described him as “a source of national pride,” saying:
“His discipline, dedication, and brilliance on the track brought immense pride to our nation. We celebrate his legacy and pray for comfort to his family and the athletics fraternity. May he rest in peace.”
Team Kenya coach David Letting offered condolences:
“Pole sana to the family and athletics fraternity at large.”
Athens Olympics bronze medalist Paul Kipsiele Koech added:
“His brilliance on the track inspired a nation. May he rest in peace.”
Birech’s passing marks the loss of a generation-defining athlete whose achievements ensured Kenya’s steeplechase tradition remained a global benchmark.
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