Two-time Olympic champion and four-time World Champion Joshua Cheptegei has backed Uganda’s 21-member team heading to the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Japan, set for September 13–21.
Uganda Athletics unveiled the squad on September 3, comprising 11 women and 10 men, featuring a mix of seasoned stars and emerging talents.
Speaking after a final training session in Kapchorwa before the team’s departure to Kampala, Cheptegei expressed confidence in their ability to shine on the world stage.
“The team has just finished a track session here in Kapchorwa, and is set to travel to Kampala today before flying to Tokyo tomorrow,” Cheptegei said.
He praised the squad’s depth and experience:
“This team is very strong. We have world marathon champion Victor Kiplangat, Olympic silver medallist Peruth Chemtai, and many other spectacular athletes.”
Although missing from the squad alongside fellow star Jacob Kiplimo, Cheptegei reassured fans that Uganda’s medal hopes remain alive.
“Even without me and Jacob, the team is in good spirits. We have incredible athletes like Stella Chesang, Peruth Chemtai, Victor Kiplangat, and Stephen Kissa,” he said.
Cheptegei urged Ugandans to rally behind the athletes:
“Let us trust the team. I believe they’ll give their best and come back with medals.”
Uganda’s 21-Member Team for Tokyo 2025
Women’s Team
• 400m: Shida Leni
• 800m: Halima Nakayi
• 1500m: Knight Aciru
• 3000m Steeplechase: Peruth Chemtai, Loice Chekwemoi
• 5000m: Sarah Chelangat, Joy Cheptoyek
• 10000m: Sarah Chelangat, Joy Cheptoyek, Rebecca Chelangat
• Marathon: Stella Chesang, Marcyline Chelangat, Juliet Chekwel
Men’s Team
• 800m: Tom Dradriga
• 3000m Steeplechase: Leonard Chemutai
• 5000m: Oscar Chelimo, Kenneth Kiprop, Harbert Kibet
• 10000m: Dan Kibet
• Marathon: Victor Kiplangat, Solomon Mutai, Stephen Kissa, Abel Chelangat
With Uganda’s strong tradition in long-distance running despite’s Cheptegei and Jacob Kiplimo, hopes remain high for podium finishes in both track and marathon events.
