Jairus Kipchoge Birech stood tall among Kenya’s greats, an African champion, a devoted father, and a man who turned dreams into reality. Crowned the 2014 Diamond League winner in the 3000m steeplechase, he etched his name as one of the fastest the event has ever seen. With every stride and leap, he carried a nation’s pride, inspiring generations to chase history. But tragically, Kenya will no longer witness his relentless pursuit, as the champion who once soared over barriers on the track has been stopped far too soon in life, leaving behind not just an empty lane in athletics, but a nation in heartbreak.

Born on 14 December 1992, Birech burst onto the steeplechase scene as a teenager. He announced his arrival in style with silver at the 2011 African U20 Championships in Gaborone, before finishing fourth at the All-Africa Games in Maputo later that year. Just three years later, he became the world’s fastest 3000m steeplechaser with a stunning 7:58.41 in Brussels, sealing the first of his two Diamond League crowns. The year 2014 was golden for him: African champion in Marrakech, Commonwealth silver medalist in Glasgow, and virtually unstoppable on the Diamond League circuit with victories in Rome, Oslo, Lausanne, Monaco, and Birmingham.

In addition to that, he topped the World list again in 2015 with 7:58.83, finishing fourth at the World Championships in Beijing, just 0.08 shy of a medal. That same year, the athlete added three more diamond league wins and defended his overall title. He reached the 2017 World Championships final in London and stayed active in track and field till 2020. Since then, there had been complete silence from the athlete, until today, when his family confirmed that Jairus Birech tragically passed away after a brief illness.

On 16th September 2025, the athlete was struck by excruciating body pains that left him weakened to hiss core. Within days, Birech was admitted to Moi teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret, where he fought for nearly two weeks under constant medical care. Doctors later revealed that the athlete was battling not only tuberculosis but also spinal meningitis. After weeks of battle against the disease, the former Diamond League gold medalist breathed his last on 18th September 2025, at about 8:30 PM. He is survived by his wife and two children.

Breaking the news to the public, Kenya’s Principal Secretary, State Department for Basic Education, Julius Kibet Bitok, shared, “I have received with profound shock and sorrow the news of the passing of Jairus Kipchoge Birech. His departure is not only a great loss to his family and friends, but also to our community, our country, and the entire sporting fraternity. Jairus Birech was more than an athlete; he was a beacon of hope, a source of pride, and a symbol of what dedication and discipline can achieve.”

Well, the statesman was not the only one saddened by the sudden demise of the athlete; the track and field community also came together, not only to bid him farewell but to honor his enduring legacy.

“May he RIP,” says Track and Field community upon the demise of Jairus Birech

Birech’s legacy extended far beyond Kenya. A champion of the African continent, he was a man who always raised his voice for his country. Julius was not the only statesman to mourn his passing. Nairobi County Member of the National Assembly Esther Muthoni Passaris took to her X handle to write, “Deeply devastated by the untimely demise of our 3000m steeplechase icon, Jairus Kipchoge Birech. His unwavering commitment and brilliance not only inspired a generation but also fortified our national pride.”

With two Diamond League medals to his name, Jairus Birech was one of Kenya’s fastest, and his demise leaves the nation in mourning. As a fan wrote, “What?! Oh my. May he RIP! He was dominant on the Diamond League back then!”

His 2014 season was particularly remarkable, with victories in major Diamond League events in Lausanne, Monaco, and Birmingham, culminating in a personal best of 7:58.41 minutes at the Brussels Diamond League, placing him among the top 10 fastest men in history for the 3000m steeplechase. Fans remembered it vividly: “RIP Jairus Birech… I vividly remember how you kept us glued to our screens just to watch you as you jumped over the water and sprinted to victory… we could scream, shouting your name with jubilation as you crossed the finish line.”

That 7:58.41 in Brussels remained his personal best and still ranks 12th on the world all-time list. One fan reflected, “Jairus Birech was one of Kenya’s finest steeplechasers. RIP.” Another added, “Former steeplechase man Jairus Birech…… Heartfelt condolences to his family RIP.”

Condolences poured in from all around the world; it was such a shock to everyone, especially amidst the World Championships, and felt like an ominous sign. Regardless, his legacy will continue to inspire and build the core of his sport.