Kenyan Runner Loses Ksh3 Million Prize After Bizarre Wrong Turn in Prague 10K Race
A 26-year-old Kenyan runner missed out on more than Ksh3 million in prize money after a costly navigational error in the final metres of the Prague Birell 10K Night Race.
Victor Kipruto Kiprono had been leading the 10-kilometre race and appeared certain to claim victory — until he followed the lead car instead of heading straight for the finish line.
What Happened?
According to race reports, Kipruto was approaching the finish line when the lead vehicle peeled away from the finishing lane to clear the way. Instinctively, the Kenyan runner followed the brightly lit car, briefly taking the wrong route.
By the time he corrected his direction and entered the finish chute, the victory had slipped away.
Race Results
| Position | Athlete | Country | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st | Rodrigue Kwizera | Spain | 27:15 |
| 2nd | Owen Korir Kapkama | Kenya | 27:16 |
| 3rd | Victor Kipruto Kiprono | Kenya | 27:18 |
| 4th | Filex Kibet Masai | Kenya | 27:19 |
| 5th | Santiago Catrofe | Uruguay | 27:24 |
Rodrigue Kwizera, born in Burundi and competing for Spain, capitalised on the confusion to win in 27:15 — a new Spanish national record, lowering Said Mechaal’s previous mark of 27:25 by 10 seconds.
A Costly Mistake
The error was particularly devastating for Kipruto, who had entered the race as one of the favourites. In 2025, he set a personal best of 27:10 in Castellón, Spain, and has been building his reputation on the international European road circuit.
He regularly competes alongside other sub-27:30 Kenyan runners, including Isaac Kibet Ndiema and Filex Kibet Masai.
After the race, Kipruto acknowledged that he had seen the finish gate but instinctively followed the brightly lit vehicle — turning what appeared to be a certain victory into a frustrating third-place finish.
Organisers Apologise, Results Stand
Race organisers RunCzech apologised after the incident and acknowledged the confusion surrounding the lead vehicle and the final stretch of the course.
However, the official results were allowed to stand, meaning Kipruto lost out on the winner’s cheque — reportedly worth more than Ksh3 million.
Race Background
The Prague Birell 10K Night Race attracted nearly 9,500 runners from 98 countries, making it one of the most competitive 10K events on the European calendar.
For Kipruto, the night will be remembered for how a wrong turn in the final 100 metres cost him victory and a life-changing payday.
Key Takeaways
- ❌ Victor Kipruto followed the lead car instead of the finish line.
- 💰 Lost winner’s prize of more than Ksh3 million.
- 🏆 Rodrigue Kwizera won in 27:15, setting a Spanish national record.
- 🇰🇪 Owen Korir Kapkama finished second, Kipruto third.
- 📢 Organisers apologised but official results stand.
- 🏃 Over 9,500 runners from 98 countries participated.