Ethiopia’s Rising Stars Reach Finals at 2025 World Athletics Awards

Addis Ababa, November 11, 2025 (FMC) — Ethiopia’s next generation of athletic talent continues to shine on the world stage, with two of the country’s young runners advancing to the finals of the 2025 World Athletics “Rising Star” Awards.

In the women’s category, distance runner Birke Haylom has reached the final for the 2025 Women’s Rising Star Award. She broke the world U20 record in the 3,000 metres earlier this year and finished fifth at the World Indoor Championships, underlining her emergence as one of the brightest prospects in global athletics.

In the men’s category, Ethiopia’s Biniam Mehary has also advanced to the final for the 2025 Men’s Rising Star Award. He set a world U20 record in the short-track 3,000 metres and placed fifth in the senior 5,000 metres, confirming his growing reputation as a formidable distance runner.

Their qualification for the finals demonstrates Ethiopia’s sustained excellence in developing world-class young athletes and its continued leadership in distance running. Both Haylom and Mehary will represent the nation among the top finalists from around the globe.

The winners of the 2025 World Athletics Awards will be announced on November 30, 2025.

For Ethiopia, the dual nominations of Birke Haylom and Biniam Mehary mark a proud moment that reflects the country’s enduring legacy and future promise in international athletics.