Nigerian Teen Ejiasian Smashes U18 Hurdles World Record
Last update: February 23, 2026
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Meet Nigeria’s rising Track Star with a World Record to his name....
Nigerian-born teenager Jared Ejiasian has etched his name into athletics history after breaking the U18 world record in the men’s 60 metres hurdles at the French U18 and U20 Indoor Championships in Val-de-Reuil.
The 16-year-old produced a stunning performance at the Stade Couvert Jesse Owens, clocking 7.43 seconds in the final to set a new global benchmark in the event.
His time shaved five hundredths of a second off the previous record of 7.48 seconds, which had stood since 2019.
The former mark was set by France’s Sasha Zhoya, and Ejiasian’s record-breaking run now places him among the most exciting young sprint hurdlers in the world.
Displaying remarkable composure and explosive speed, Ejiasian took control of the race early.
After clearing the second hurdle, he accelerated away from the field and maintained his rhythm through the remaining barriers, powering across the finish line to loud cheers from spectators.
The achievement marks his second major success of the indoor season.
In January, he signalled his growing dominance at the Tempo Run League indoor meet, where he won the same event in 7.57 seconds.
That performance established a new African U18 record and hinted at even greater accomplishments ahead.
Born in Nigeria, Ejiasian relocated to France at just three months old.
Despite developing his athletics career in Europe, he currently represents Nigeria in international competitions.
Reports, however, indicate that he has begun the process of naturalisation and could represent France in future events.
His rapid progression has been evident over the past few years.
In 2024, he broke four French school records in the U14 category, including three in the 200 metres hurdles and another in the 4x60 metres mixed relay.
Competing for AC Nord Val d’Oise, he has consistently impressed coaches and athletics observers with his discipline, technique, and maturity beyond his age.
With the new world record to his name, Ejiasian’s latest feat underscores his immense potential and strengthens his status as one of the brightest prospects in global track and field.
