British runner Josh Kerr achieved a historic milestone on Saturday, setting the fastest mile in history at the London Diamond League. Kerr recorded a time of 3 minutes, 42.66 seconds, breaking Moroccan Hicham El Guerrouj’s previous record of 3:43.13 established in Rome in 1999. This achievement ended a record that stood for 27 years.
The 28-year-old celebrated his accomplishment with a lap around London Stadium, marking his significant contribution to track and field history. The event took place at the Novuna London Athletics Meet, part of the 2026 Wanda Diamond League.
Video shared by the Diamond League showcased Kerr’s triumphant moment as he raised his arms in victory upon crossing the finish line. The stadium celebrated his achievement enthusiastically.
Josh Kerr finished the race over three seconds ahead of American Yared Nuguse, who clocked 3:45.69. Britain’s Jake Heyward placed third with a personal best of 3:46.73, according to the results released by World Athletics.
Social media reactions followed Kerr’s record-breaking performance. Team Scotland expressed their pride, recognizing Kerr’s remarkable run and record-breaking achievement. The Olympic Games’ official account also acknowledged Kerr’s feat, highlighting the end of a 27-year-old record.
Before the race, Kerr had identified the London Diamond League as a key goal for the season, which did not include major competitions like the Olympics or World Championships. Kerr credited the supportive atmosphere inside London Stadium for inspiring him during the last stretch of the race.
Kerr shared with BBC Sport, “It was just me, my shoes and the track. I was deaf in the last 110 meters.”
Kerr reflected on the pressure he experienced after announcing his intentions to pursue the record months earlier. Speaking to BBC Sport, he acknowledged the hype and challenges of making an early declaration yet expressed gratitude to those who supported him.
Josh Kerr emphasized his ambition to leave a lasting legacy in British athletics. He noted the importance of performances like Saturday’s in building his reputation as a British legend.
Prior to turning professional, Kerr excelled at the University of New Mexico, securing three NCAA titles, eight Mountain West championships, and setting the collegiate record in the 1,500 meters. His recent performance reduced his previous fastest mile time by nearly three seconds and removed one of track and field’s longest-standing world records, according to World Athletics.
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