Omanyala insists on KSh64m fee for IShowSpeed race
Kenya’s sprint star Ferdinand Omanyala has stood firm on his demand of KSh64 million to race American streamer IShowSpeed, dismissing suggestions that online exposure could replace proper payment. Omanyala made his position clear this week amid growing debate over the proposed exhibition race.
The African 100m record holder said his value as an elite athlete must be respected. “I can’t be paid with streams and likes,” Omanyala told Pulse Sports. “This is my profession, and there is a standard that comes with it.”
Omanyala, who has consistently clocked sub-10-second times on the global stage, added that the fee reflects preparation, risk and his international profile. “People see the race, but they don’t see the work behind it,” he said.
An athletics official backed his stance, noting, “Top athletes deserve fair compensation, even in entertainment events.” The talks remain unresolved, with Omanyala maintaining that any race must meet professional terms.