A lot can happen in 222 seconds – for Josh Kerr, it’s enough to make history. SEATTLE (July 18, 2026) – Today Brooks Beast Josh Kerr has broken the men's mile world record at the London Diamond League in a time of 3:42.66 becoming the first athlete in more than 25 years to surpass the previous mark of 3:43.13 set by Hicham El Guerrouj in 1999. The achievement marks the culmination of Project 222, Brooks and Kerr's ambitious pursuit to redefine what is possible in one of track and field's most iconic events. Competing on home soil in a packed stadium and paced by Beasts teammate and 800m specialist Brannon Kidder, Kerr delivered a landmark performance that cements his place among the greatest middle-distance runners in history and returns the mile world record to British soil. For Kerr, this performance solidifies his spot amongst the long British lineage in this event, joining the likes of Roger Bannister (who broke the four-minute-mile barrier in 1954), alongside Sebastian Coe, Steve Ovett and Steve Cram, all of whom held the world record at various stages in the 1980s. "Project 222 was about believing that something extraordinary was possible," said Kerr. "To bring this record back to Britain, alongside the team that has supported me every step of the way, is incredibly special." The record-breaking run represents the realization of a years-long partnership between Kerr and Brooks, focused on athlete-first innovation, personalized performance solutions, and relentless preparation. Brooks supported Kerr's pursuit through custom race-day gear worn today and developed specifically for this moment: Kerr wore a custom Hyperion 222 racing spike, built around his unique foot strike, asymmetrical push-off, and demand for an ultra-aggressive ride. It features an optimized foam compound for an all-out mile, a carbon fiber plate with integrated traction and titanium permanent pins for full-tilt racing, and an extreme rocker geometry that launches him off the toe instantly. His one of one speed suit features two-fabric construction that balances aerodynamics and breathability, with laser cut perforations that release heat and humidity while enhancing mobility through the lower half. A streamlined, sleeveless high-neck silhouette, minimal seams, and moisture-wicking panels that helped keep him cool, dry, and locked into rhythm. "This is a historic moment for Josh, for Brooks, and for the sport," said Garrett Heath, Head of Sports Marketing at Brooks. "Josh set out to chase one of the toughest records in athletics and succeeded through courage, preparation, and belief. We're honored to have supported him on this journey." "It’s impossible to describe the enormity of this moment. I’m so proud of Josh, and the hard work and dedication that it has taken to make history," said Danny Mackey, Head Coach of the Brooks Beasts. "Josh has been laser-focused on this for a long time—Project 222 wasn’t just a number to him; it's been a daily commitment he's lived and breathed. Today was the culmination of his career since its beginning, and I’m overjoyed to see this years-long dream realized." Kerr, who has been a member of the Brooks Beasts team since 2018, adds the mile world record to an already remarkable career that includes a World Championship title, multiple World Indoor titles, and two Olympic medals, with eyes set on the 2028 Olympics. About Project 222 Project 222 was Josh Kerr's pursuit of one of the most revered achievements in track and field: breaking the mile world record. Developed in partnership with his longtime sponsor, Brooks Running, the initiative combined elite competition, personalized innovation, and world-class athlete support to challenge the limits of human performance. About Brooks Running Brooks Running creates market-leading performance running footwear, apparel, sports bras, and accessories distributed worldwide. Brooks exists to awaken the runner in everyone, through innovative gear, tools, and experiences. Since 1914, Brooks has been propelled by a never-ending curiosity with how humans move, pushing the limits of motion science, engineering, and technology to create gear that unlocks the power of energy and movement for everyone. Brooks is a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway Inc. and is headquartered in Seattle, Washington. Visit Brooks Running for more information or follow @brooksrunning.
