In a heartfelt tribute, the city of Paris will name a sports venue after Ugandan marathon runner Rebecca Cheptegei, who tragically lost her life this week. Cheptegei, 33, died on Thursday from severe burns after her former partner allegedly set her on fire outside her home in Kenya.
Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo announced the decision, saying, “She dazzled us here in Paris… Her beauty, strength, and freedom were probably intolerable for the person who committed this murder.” The venue naming will “contribute to carrying the message of equality” and serve as a reminder of Cheptegei’s remarkable achievements.
Cheptegei, a mother of two, competed in this year’s Olympic Games in Paris, finishing 44th in the women’s marathon. Her earnings from running enabled her to support her family, embodying the empowerment of female athletes.
Fellow athlete Joan Chelimo described Cheptegei’s murder as a “wake-up call” and emphasized the need for action against violence targeting sportswomen. Cheptegei’s death follows the 2021 murder of Kenyan Olympian Agnes Tirop, highlighting the urgent need for change.
The investigation into Cheptegei’s death is ongoing, with police treating the attack as murder. As the sports community mourns her loss, the naming of the Paris sports venue will ensure her legacy lives on, inspiring future generations of athletes.
