Omanyala Explains Why He Declined Chance to Race American Streamer IShowSpeed

Kenyan sprint sensation Ferdinand Omanyala has come out to clarify his reasons behind the failure to race American streamer IShowSpeed during his recent tour to Kenya.

Before the streamer’s tour, there was speculation ofa possible showdown between Ishowspeed and the Africa's fastest man, a run that Omanyala blatantly declined, citing professional obligations.

Omanyala had reportedly set strict conditions for the YouTuber, which included a compensation fee of over kshh6 million before participating in what he termed an exhibition race.

“I am not an influencer. I do this for money. Coming to do an exhibition run, i have to pause some of the things that i am doing to come to you. I need to earn from running,” Omanyala clarified.

He stated that he had partnered with several notable companies that usually pay him to run, and he would not participate in any content creation.

Earlier, he noted that he had no rules set for someone needing to race him as long as proper communication and necessary payment are made.

Omanyala noted that in the event he suffered an injury, his career would take a hit would IShowSpeed, being an online personality, would suffer minimal economic ramifications if he endured an injury.

His reactions caused mixed reactions online, with fans expressing disappointmentwhile others praised Omanyala for standing firm on his career and values.

Omanyala clarified that if Speed wanted to race him, it would be serious business, noting that he would have to reach out to his management and make the required payment. “If he agrees to our terms, we will have fun,” he added, noting he was looking forward to the race.

Even without the race, Omanyala stated that he still hoped to meet the YouTuber and show him around Nairobi and experience different Kenyan delicacies.

IShowSpeed, whose real name is Darren Watkins Jr., was in Kenya from January 11  and had met key figures in the country, including Tourism Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano and javelin star Julius Yego.

He is well known for challenging professional athletes and public figures to sprint races. He has, in the recent past, raced the notable athletes, including world champion Letsile Tebogo, in a 200 metre race while in Botswana. In 2024, he ran the 100 metre Olympic gold medalist Noah Lyles in a 50 metre dash for over KSh10 million, a race that Lyles won.

At the time of publication of this article, Speed had completed his two-day Kenyan tour, and had moved on to Ethiopia.