Ferdinand Omanyala has defended his decision to request payment before taking part in a sprint challenge with American YouTuber iShowSpeed, saying the matter was about professionalism and not personal entitlement.
Omanyala addressed the issue after online debate erupted over his sentiments on racing with the YouTuber during iShowSpeed’s ongoing Africa tour, with some social media users criticising the sprinter for allegedly “asking for money” to race.
Speaking publicly on the matter, Omanyala said his stance had been misunderstood and taken out of context.
“I am a professional athlete. This is what I do for a living,” he said. “If I am running, that is my job.”
The Commonwealth Games 100m champion explained that while the race may appear casual to viewers online, any sprint — even for entertainment — still involves physical exertion, preparation and potential risk.
“People think it’s just a race, but running is work for me,” Omanyala stated.
He added that participating in a sprint for content exposes an athlete to injury, something he said must be considered before agreeing to such engagements.
“If I get injured while running for content, who takes responsibility?” he asked.
Omanyala further noted that iShowSpeed’s Africa tour is part of a monetised content project, with the YouTuber earning revenue through views, brand partnerships and sponsorships. In that context, he argued that everyone contributing to the content should be treated as a professional.
“Content creation makes money, and if you are part of that content, you should be respected as a professional,” he said.
The sprinter dismissed claims that he declined to interact with the YouTuber, clarifying that the discussion was strictly about the nature of the activity.
“I didn’t refuse to meet him. I just said if we are racing, that’s work,” Omanyala explained.
“This is not about ego. It’s about professionalism,” Omanyala said.
He added that the expectation for athletes to perform for exposure alone undermines the value of their careers.“Exposure does not pay bills,” he said.
Omanyala pointed out that appearance fees and performance payments are standard practice for elite athletes globally, whether in exhibition races, promotional events or brand activations.
“International athletes charge appearance fees all the time. This is normal,” he stated.
He used the moment to urge fellow athletes to assert their professional worth, particularly in digital spaces where content is highly monetised. “Athletes must start valuing themselves,” he emphasized.