Double Olympic champion Faith Kipyegon is one step away from becoming the first woman to claim a three-peat in 1500m at the Olympics as the reigning champion posted a dominant display to ease into the final on Thursday at Stade de France.

The world record holder over the distance timed 3:58.64 in the first semifinal ahead of Great Briton Georgia Bell who clocked 3:59.49.

Kipyegon’s compatriot and Olympic Games debutant Susan Lokeyo also advanced to Saturday’s final after finishing fifth in the second semi-final in a personal best time of 3:56.57.

Kenya’s other representative Nelly Chepchirchir finished second last in the first semifinal in 4:03.24 to miss out on the final.