Absa Commits 8M as Sirikwa Classic Returns for 2026 Edition

Absa Bank Kenya has renewed its backing of the Sirikwa Classic Cross Country with an KSh8 million sponsorship, cementing its position as title sponsor of the 2026 edition of the prestigious global event.

The Absa Sirikwa Classic Cross Country, a World Athletics Gold Level Cross Country Tour meet, will return for its fifth edition on Saturday, February 14, 2026, at Lobo Village in Kapseret, Eldoret—Kenya’s famed high-altitude running hub.

Now firmly established among the world’s elite cross-country meetings, the Sirikwa Classic has grown in stature year after year, attracting top international athletes, emerging young talent and grassroots runners to compete on Eldoret’s demanding terrain.

Speaking at the launch of the 2026 edition, Absa Bank Kenya Head of Sustainability and Corporate Affairs Charles Wokabi said the bank’s continued investment reflects its long-term commitment to nurturing athletic excellence and strengthening Kenya’s athletics ecosystem.

“Through sport, we unlock human potential, inspire communities and create pathways for young athletes to turn talent into sustainable careers, while showcasing Kenya’s rich athletics heritage to the world,” said Wokabi.

He added that Absa’s seven-year partnership with Athletics Kenya is aimed at deepening talent development by strengthening local competitions and providing athletes with platforms that bridge grassroots running and the global stage.

Athletics Kenya President Lt Gen (Rtd) Jack Tuwei hailed the event’s impact beyond elite competition, saying the Sirikwa Classic continues to play a vital role in identifying young talent, inspiring grassroots participation and reinforcing Eldoret’s status as the global home of distance running.

This year’s edition is set to attract a stellar field of world-class athletes, led by World Cross Country champion Agnes Jebet Ngetich and World Cross Country bronze medallist Daniel Simiu Ebenyo. They will be joined by global stars Beatrice Chebet, a two-time World Cross Country champion, and former New York City Marathon winner Geoffrey Kamworor.

The event programme features a full day of racing, beginning with youth races in the morning before the elite, Under-20 and loop races take centre stage in the afternoon. The inclusive format allows young runners and community athletes to share the same stage as the world’s best.

The Sirikwa Classic also boasts one of the most attractive prize money packages on the World Athletics Cross Country Tour, with elite winners set to earn up to USD 6,000, alongside rewards for U20 and loop race competitors.

With live television coverage, international media attention and thousands of spectators expected in Eldoret, the 2026 Absa Sirikwa Classic Cross Country promises another thrilling celebration of endurance, speed and Kenya’s unrivalled distance-running legacy.