The Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports has announced plans to make a policy change after facing backlash from Kenyans online over the treatment of Olympic champion and marathon gold medalist Peres Jepchirchir during her return flight from the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Japan.
Jepchirchir, who clinched gold in the women’s marathon, was seen flying economy class on her journey back to Kenya aboard a Qatar Airways flight.
A video that emerged online on Tuesday, September 16, showed her receiving a heartfelt mid-air celebration from the flight attendants, who surprised her with a mini cake, a glass of juice, and words of appreciation for her stellar performance.
“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 of the cabin crew was heard saying warmly, followed by cheers and applause. “God bless you and may all your dreams come true. May you keep getting more medals for your country.”
Despite the kind gesture from the flight crew, many Kenyans online were not impressed by the fact that a world-class athlete — fresh from securing a global title — was seated in economy class.
Online outrage and response by Athletics Kenya
The video quickly went viral, sparking strong reactions across social media platforms. Many questioned why a celebrated champion like Jepchirchir was not accorded better treatment, particularly from the country she had made proud.
“Some country is going to offer her citizenship and better treatment,” lamented George IQ Watson. Another user, James Whistler, expressed frustration over the apparent lack of recognition for the athlete’s accomplishment.
“@Athletics Kenya, it is incumbent upon us to make greater strides in expressing gratitude to those who proudly represent and elevate our nation’s honour. Surely, one cannot fathom why a world champion would be relegated to travelling in economy class,” he said,
Others joined the conversation, emphasizing that a simple upgrade would have sent a stronger message of appreciation. Farhiya Abbas suggested, “Well, an upgrade would be a better way to honor a World Champion.”
Also Read: Beatrice Chebet Bags Kenya’s First Gold in Tokyo World Athletics Championships
Mwololo echoed similar sentiments, questioning how a national hero could be treated so casually. However, some, like Maureen Luvanda, acknowledged the flight crew’s kind gesture but felt more could have been done. “Surely, they should have upgraded her to first class – but it was kind of them to honor her in that way also,” she said.
Meanwhile, Kimani pointed out that the gesture likely came from the goodwill of the airline staff rather than formal recognition.
“Guys, I don’t even think the airlines knew these hostesses were doing this for her, and it seems it’s the best they could do to appreciate her. These girls are awesome and “screams ladies for ladies”. Questions should be directed to the AK chairman on why athletes are in economy,” he opined.
In response to growing public criticism, the Secretary for Administration at the State Department for Sports, Evans Achoki, has confirmed that all medal-winning athletes will travel in business class moving forward.
“The travel arrangements have been done, and we intend to fly all the medalists in business class so that they can be rewarded for their good performance. We believe this will motivate them to work harder,” Achoki said on Wednesday.
Peres Jepchirchir jets back after clinching gold
Jepchirchir received a rapturous reception at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) on Tuesday afternoon, following her dramatic gold medal win in Tokyo.
The 31-year-old touched down at 1:40 p.m. and was greeted by a jubilant crowd that included government dignitaries, Athletics Kenya officials, fellow athletes, and cheering fans waving flags and singing songs in celebration.
Also Read: Millions Kipyegon Chebet and Jepchirchir Will Pocket After Winning Gold in Tokyo World Athletics
The Olympic champion’s epic win came after a thrilling 42-kilometre battle through the streets of Tokyo, where she and Ethiopia’s Tigist Assefa entered the Japan National Stadium neck and neck. Assefa attempted to break away on the final stretch, but Jepchirchir delivered a powerful finishing surge to clinch victory in 2:24:43, edging her rival by just two seconds.
Speaking shortly after arriving in Nairobi, Jepchirchir said the win was for the country. The Olympic champion acknowledged the immense pressure she faced going into the race.
“I dedicate my gold medal to all Kenyans. I thank God for this victory. I was praying just to be on the podium, and God has answered my prayer,” she said. “I was under a lot of pressure. Ethiopia selected a strong team, and Assefa is the lady who broke my women-only record. My aim now is to break that record back.”
Despite the humid and challenging conditions in Tokyo, Jepchirchir credited her success to thorough preparation.
Jepchirchir’s victory adds yet another major title to an already glittering career. She is an Olympic marathon champion, two-time World half-marathon champion, three-time world record holder, and a winner of three World marathon majors—New York (2021), Boston (2022) and London (2024).
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