Kenya shifts to invitation-only trials ahead of World U-20 Championships

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By Maxwell Kumoye 
 
 

Athletics Kenya has announced that it will conduct invitation-only trials from May 21 to 23 to select the national team for the 2026 World Under-20 Championships in Oregon, USA.

The trials, scheduled to take place at Nyayo National Stadium, mark a significant shift from the traditional open selection process that has long been associated with Kenya’s athletics culture.

According to the National Olympic Committee of Kenya 1st Deputy President and Athletics Kenya Youth Development Department Director Barnaba Korir, the decision follows strict directives from World Athletics amid growing concerns over doping and age manipulation in junior competitions.

Korir explained that the federation can no longer afford to hold open trials, as authorities intensify efforts to protect the integrity of youth athletics and ensure that only verified and eligible athletes compete at the global championships.

The move is expected to tighten the selection process while helping Kenya restore confidence in its athletics development structures, particularly at the junior level where the country has traditionally excelled on the world stage.

Kenya remains one of the strongest nations in youth athletics and will be aiming to assemble a formidable squad capable of challenging for medals in Oregon next year.
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