Some world records last for years, but Jakob Ingebrigtsen only needed five days to rewrite history. The Norwegian middle-distance star set new indoor world records in both the mile and the 1,500-meter race during the same event in Liévin, France. His incredible performance not only surpassed Yared Nuguse’s previous record but also demonstrated his dominance on the track.
Breaking Records with a Stunning Performance
On Thursday, Ingebrigtsen clocked an astonishing 3:45.14 in the indoor mile, surpassing the previous record of 3:46.63 set by Yared Nuguse at the Millrose Games in New York just five days earlier. Ingebrigtsen’s achievement didn’t stop there—he also set a new indoor 1,500-meter record in the same race, passing through the distance in 3:29.63.
“The main objective was to do sub-3:30 (for 1,500m) and then try to keep the pace, or not slow down too much, for the last turn and the home straight,” said Ingebrigtsen. “Of course, I’m happy.”
A Race Against Time and History
Unlike Nuguse’s race, where he was pushed by Hobbs Kessler, Ingebrigtsen ran alone for much of the event. He led from the front, creating a significant gap between himself and the competition. By the final stretch, he had pulled nearly 50 meters ahead, finishing over seven seconds before the Netherlands’ Stefan Nillessen, who came in second.
“I would say I’m lucky to have the opportunity to do both (records) in the same race, especially when I get good results,” Ingebrigtsen added.
A Legacy of Record-Breaking
Ingebrigtsen, a two-time Olympic gold medalist, is no stranger to breaking records. He already holds the 3,000m world record and has set world-best times in the two-mile and 2,000m events. His latest achievement makes him the first athlete since Australian John Landy in 1954 to set world records for both the mile and 1,500m in the same race.
“This race, as I said yesterday, was all about testing myself, seeing where I’m at, how my training’s been going and seeing my fitness,” Ingebrigtsen explained. “Of course, I’m very lucky to be in the position where I can put out a good plan, but also follow that plan exactly and do all the right things to make it happen.”
Looking Ahead to the World Championships
Ingebrigtsen’s performance sets the stage for a thrilling season, as he prepares for a competitive year against top middle-distance rivals such as Nuguse, Great Britain’s Josh Kerr, and USA’s Cole Hocker. His journey to the world championships in Tokyo this September will be closely watched, especially after his fourth-place finish in the 1,500m at last year’s Olympics, where Hocker claimed an unexpected gold. However, Ingebrigtsen quickly redeemed himself by winning gold in the 5,000m.
With his records awaiting formal ratification by World Athletics, Jakob Ingebrigtsen has once again proven why he is one of the greatest middle-distance runners of his generation. His ability to push boundaries and redefine speed on the track continues to inspire athletes and fans worldwide.