Kenya’s athletics family is mourning the death of steeplechase sensation Jairus Kipchoge Birech, who passed away at the age of 32 after battling illness. The former Commonwealth Games silver medalist died on Thursday night, leaving behind a legacy that defined a generation of track athletes.
Highlights:
- Jairus Birech, 2014 Commonwealth Games silver medalist, dies at 32
- Diagnosed with tuberculosis and spinal meningitis before his death
- Won two Diamond League trophies and set a personal best of 7:58.41 in 2014
- Tributes flow in from athletes, coaches, and leaders across Kenya
- Survived by his wife and two children
Birech’s family confirmed that he fell ill on September 16, 2025, after experiencing severe body pains. He was admitted to Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret, where doctors diagnosed him with tuberculosis and spinal meningitis. Despite medical care, he passed away on Thursday, September 18, surrounded by loved ones in Nandi.
A Career of Global Triumphs
Born on December 14, 1992, in Kesses, Uasin Gishu County, Birech became one of Kenya’s most formidable athletes.
- He clinched African Championship gold in Marrakech (2014).
- Secured silver at the Commonwealth Games and at the World U20 Championships.
- Claimed 10 Diamond League race victories, winning the overall trophy in 2014 and 2015.
- In Brussels (2014), he clocked 7:58.41, ranking among the top ten steeplechasers in history.
Beyond the track, Birech tested road racing, posting a 1:00:33 half marathon in Milan (2019) and competing at the Guadalajara Marathon in 2020, his last international race.
The athletics community has been shaken by his passing.
- Kesses MP Julius Rutto hailed him as “a source of national pride,” praising his discipline and brilliance.
- Team Kenya coach David Letting extended condolences, describing his death as a great loss to the sport.
- Olympic bronze medalist Paul Kipsiele Koech remembered him as an inspiration who carried forward Kenya’s steeplechase dominance.
Birech leaves behind his wife and two children. Funeral arrangements will be announced later by his family. His passing marks not just the end of a remarkable career, but also the loss of a man who embodied Kenya’s tradition of excellence in the steeplechase.
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Jairus Birech’s story is one of brilliance, resilience, and inspiration his name will forever remain etched in Kenya’s rich athletics history.
