“10KM International by WeCasablanca”: Organizers Highlight an Exceptional Line-Up of International and Moroccan Athletes
The “10KM International by WeCasablanca,” scheduled for Sunday, is set to feature an exceptional line-up of international and Moroccan athletes, organizers announced on Friday.
On the women’s side, Ethiopian star Likina Amebaw Ayel, a world-class reference in both the half marathon and 10 km, headlines the field. Winner of the Copenhagen Half Marathon earlier this year, Amebaw Ayel also holds the fourth-fastest time in history over the distance. She will be joined by two renowned Kenyan runners: Lydia Cheptarus Cheruiyot, who boasts a 10 km best of 31:11, and Chacha Jane Ghati, who impressed in 2025 with a 14:45 over 5 km in Nairobi.
Among the men, Kenyan Vincent Kiprotich Kibet, with a personal best of 27:24 in the 10 km, enters as a favorite. He will be challenged by Spain’s Ilyas Fifa, the national record holder with 27:41 and former European 5,000 m champion, as well as Bahrain’s Hassan Chani, one of the leading long-distance figures in the Arab and Asian athletics scene. Saudi runner Tariq Ahmed Almari, who clocked 27:44 in London in 2024, will also line up.
Morocco will be represented by Hafid Rezqi, returning from the World Championships in Tokyo, and seasoned marathoner Mustapha El Houdadi, whose 2:07:17 finish in Sydney stands among his career highlights.
Speaking to MAP, Mohamed Jouahri, Director General of Casablanca Events & Animation, stressed that the race reflects Casablanca’s growing role as a major urban sports hub, while offering spectators the chance to witness world-class competition. He added that the “10KM International by WeCasablanca” also highlights the city’s sporting infrastructure and dynamic race village.
For his part, Moroccan national team runner Mustapha El Houdadi expressed hope of delivering a strong performance, praising the level of organization of this international event.
The race will start at the foot of the iconic Twin Center on Boulevard Zerktouni before winding through some of Casablanca’s most emblematic avenues, including Boulevards Anfa, My Youssef, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah, and the Corniche, providing a dynamic and scenic backdrop to the competition.
With more than 15,000 runners expected at the start line, the “10KM International by WeCasablanca” has already positioned itself as a landmark race on the international circuit. Beyond athletic excellence, the event seeks to strengthen Casablanca’s image as a global capital of urban sport and to showcase the vibrancy of the city and its people.
Editorial team/le7tv
