Paris's mayor, Anne Hidalgo, announced that a sports venue will be named in her memory to honor Ugandan Olympic runner Rebecca Cheptegei.

Cheptegei, who competed in the women’s marathon at the recent Paris Olympics, tragically passed away after suffering severe burns from an attack by her partner in Kenya.

PHOTO | COURTESY 

Hidalgo deeply admired Cheptegei, saying, “She impressed us all in Paris with her beauty, strength, and freedom. Unfortunately, these qualities became intolerable for the person who committed this heinous act.”

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The 33-year-old athlete finished 44th in her Olympic debut and was remembered fondly for her resilience. Paris will dedicate a sports facility to keep her memory alive and promote the message of equality championed by the Olympic Games.

PHOTO | COURTESY The suspect, Dickson Ndiema Marangach

Cheptegei sustained 80% burns after being attacked by her Kenyan boyfriend, Dickson Ndiema Marangach, in front of her children, leading to her untimely death. The tribute aims to ensure her legacy endures while raising awareness about gender violence.