Kenyan sprinter Ferdinand Omanyala has addressed why he did not take part in a proposed race against American streamer IShowSpeed during the YouTuber’s recent tour of Nairobi.
Speaking on Monday, January 12, he explained that, unlike influencers whose careers are not dependent on physical performance, his livelihood is tied entirely to his ability to compete, stay healthy, and deliver results on the track.
Omanyala stressed that risking injury in an informal race would have serious consequences for his career and contractual obligations.
“I’m not an influencer, man. I do this for money, and I have big companies like Adidas and Toyota. These guys are paying me because of running. For Speed, after that run, God forbid he gets an injury, he still continues with the streams, even with crutches.
“But for me, what happens? You know, I need to earn from running, so that’s why I need to cover my bases,” he explained.
This comes after fans across the country were eagerly speculating whether the matchup could become one of the most-watched livestreams in Kenyan internet history, blending athletics, online culture, and entertainment.
iShowSpeed was in Nairobi as part of his “Speed Does Africa” tour, which celebrates African cities, culture, and digital creativity.
