Ferdinand Omanyala: Why Letsile Tebogo’s Disqualification Gave Oblique Seville the Edge Over Noah Lyles and Kishane Thompson

Kenyan sprint star Ferdinand Omanyala believes that Letsile Tebogo’s absence in the men’s 100m final at the Tokyo Diamond League played a quiet but significant role in helping Oblique Seville edge out big names like Kishane Thompson and Noah Lyles.

Seville registered a personal best time of 9.77 seconds to clinch gold, edging out countryman Thompson, who settled for Silver on 9.82 seconds, while Lyles settled for Bronze on 9.89 second.

Speaking to Sporty FM after the event, Omanyala, who was eliminated at the semi final stage after a season that saw him struggle with injuries, explained that Seville benefited slightly from the open space created by Tebogo’s disqualification.

“It’s hard, but I think for him, he actually had an advantage because Tebogo wasn’t there,” Omanyala said. “So, on one of his sides, he didn’t have that immediate pressure, and he could see how the race was unfolding.”

The African champion noted that while lane placement can influence visibility and rhythm, top sprinters know how to adapt.

“From the outer lanes, you can see everyone,” he said. “But when you’re in good shape, it doesn’t matter. 

"At the 2023 World Athletics Championships, Sha’Carri (Richardson)  won (the event) from lane three, and (Justin) Gatlin beat (Usain) Bolt from lane eight. When you execute your race, the lane doesn’t matter.”

Omanyala also shared insights into his mental preparation routine, revealing that he replays his past victories to stay grounded and confident.

“I watch my good races before every competition — it reminds me who I am and what I’ve done,” he said.

The African  record-holder emphasised that studying the lineup before each race helps-explaining the importance of knowing the competitors that you are up against for any given race, whether Diamond League, Invitationals or even Major Championship events.

“We always check the lineup. If you know someone is faster at the start or stronger at the end, it gives you that adrenaline rush,” Omanyala explained. “Facing names like Lyles or Thompson pushes your mind to another level.”

With his signature mix of confidence and discipline, Omanyala summed it up best:

“Run in your tunnel. Focus on your race — because once you start running someone else’s race, you’ve already lost.”