Nigerian-Born Teen Sensation Breaks U18 60m Hurdles World Record

Nigerian-Born Teen Sensation Breaks U18 60m Hurdles World Record

By Our Reporter 

Nigerian-born sprint hurdler Jared Ejiasian has set a new Under-18 world record in the men’s 60 meters hurdles, delivering a standout performance at the French U18 and U20 Indoor Championships in Val-de-Reuil, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The 16-year-old clocked 7.43 seconds in Saturday’s final at the Stade Couvert Jesse Owens, lowering the previous U18 world mark by five hundredths of a second. The former record of 7.48 seconds had stood since 2019 and was set by Sasha Zhoya.

Ejiasian seized control of the race after the second hurdle, accelerating away from the field before powering through the finish line in record time. The victory marks his second major triumph of the indoor season and further cements his growing reputation in youth athletics.

He had already signaled his potential earlier this year. In January, Ejiasian claimed victory in the same event at the Tempo Run League indoor meet, posting a time of 7.57 seconds to establish a new African U18 record.

Born in Nigeria, Ejiasian relocated to France at just three months old. He currently represents Nigeria in international competitions. However, reports indicate he has initiated the process of naturalisation and could represent France in future events.

His rapid ascent has been years in the making. In 2024, Ejiasian broke four French school records in the U14 category, including three in the 200 meters hurdles and one in the 4×60 meters mixed relay.

Competing for AC Nord Val d’Oise in domestic league meetings, Ejiasian is widely regarded as one of the most promising young talents in global sprint hurdling. His latest achievement not only underscores his remarkable progression but also positions him as a rising force in international athletics.