George Mills Shatters Mo Farah's 14-Year-Old British 5000m Record in Oslo

George Mills has made athletics history by smashing Sir Mo Farah's long-standing British 5000m record at the Bislett Games in Oslo on Thursday evening. The 26-year-old from Harrogate ran a stunning 12 minutes 46.59 seconds to finish fourth in the Diamond League meeting, obliterating Farah's previous mark of 12:53.11 that had stood for 14 years.

Mills' performance represents a remarkable breakthrough, taking a massive 12 seconds off his previous personal best and establishing him as only the second European in history to run faster than 12:47 over the distance. The race was won by American Nico Young, who set a new outdoor American record of 12:45.27.

"I like to run brave," Mills said moments after his record-breaking performance, summarising the aggressive racing style that has characterised his recent surge to prominence. The European silver medallist's time makes him the second-fastest European of all time over 5000m, marking a significant step forward for British distance running.

Farah's record, set in 2011, had seemed untouchable for over a decade. No British man has won a global 5000m medal since Farah in 2017, making Mills' breakthrough all the more significant as he builds toward the World Championships later this year.

The Yorkshire athlete has been in exceptional form recently, having also set British records at other distances including the 3000m earlier this year. His progression represents hope for British distance running as the sport looks to find successors to Farah's legendary achievements.

Mills reflected on social media after the race, describing it as a "Big moment, building momentum" and crediting his support team. With the World Championships on the horizon, this record-breaking performance positions Mills as a genuine contender for global medals and signals a new era for British middle-distance running.