Kenyan sprinter OMANYALA defends declining to race with ISHOWSPEED during his Nairobi tour - “You can’t pay me with streams and likes”

Tuesday, January 20, 2026 - Kenya’s sprinting star, Ferdinand Omanyala, has defended his decision to decline a proposed race against US‑based streamer, IShowSpeed, in Nairobi.

Speaking to reporters, Omanyala stressed that his focus remains on competitive athletics rather than exhibition events.

“I cannot build a brand for seven hours a day, for four months and 44 weeks a year, only for someone to pay me with streams and likes,” he said.

Omanyala, who holds multiple national sprinting records, explained that his training schedule is rigorous and carefully structured, leaving little room for non‑competitive challenges.

“My time and effort are invested in winning medals and representing my country,” he added.

His remarks have drawn mixed reactions online.

Critics argued that Omanyala missed an opportunity to connect with younger audiences and expand his global profile through a fun, high‑visibility challenge.

Supporters, however, praised his stance, noting that professional athletes deserve proper compensation and recognition for their skill, not just online attention.

‘I cannot build a brand for seven hours a day, for four months and 44 weeks a year, only for someone to pay me with streams and likes,’ Africa’s fastest man, Ferdinand Omanyala, continues to defend his decision not to race US-based streamer IShowSpeed! pic.twitter.com/TobXxSAf9K

— The Kenyan Vigilante (@KenyanSays) January 20, 2026

The Kenyan DAILY POST