Today's Edition
ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)
The second Zayed Charity Run concluded in Rio de Janeiro on Sunday with a vibrant show of unity and generosity, as more than 3,000 participants from around the world, including over 200 runners from the UAE, came together for the first-ever South American leg of the global humanitarian race.
UAE athletes also delivered a standout performance, winning five medals across the 5km and 10km races. Rashid Al Naqbi led a clean sweep of the 5km podium, his gold medal effort followed by Saud Al Zaabi and Saif Al Alawi in the order.
In the 10km category, Abdelali Bouazzaoui claimed silver while Obaid Al Nuaimi took bronze. The UAE’s haul of five medals came from a total of 12 awarded. Brazilian runners claimed the remaining seven.
The winners were honoured by Sharif Essa Al Suwaidi, UAE Ambassador to Brazil, in the presence of Lt. Gen. (Rtd.) Mohamed Al Kaabi, Chairman of the Higher Organising Committee of the Zayed Charity Run, alongside senior Rio de Janeiro officials.
Brazil was the second of three international destinations on the radar of the run, sandwiched between Beijing last month and ahead of Budapest in May 2026.
“We are proud of the outstanding success achieved by this Run, both in its humanitarian impact and organisational excellence,” Al Kaabi said. “The remarkable public engagement reflects the global stature the run has reached,” he said.
He added that the event, founded in 2001, continues to reflect the UAE’s enduring commitment to humanitarian values. “The principles of generosity and solidarity that this run embodies have guided its success and global growth,” he said. “It stands as a symbol of the UAE’s role in fostering compassion and cooperation among nations.”
The Rio edition further cemented the run’s reputation as one of the world’s leading charitable sporting events. Proceeds from the race will go to Rio Solidario, a prominent Brazilian non-profit that supports vulnerable children, women and families. This partnership underscores the run’s mission to use sport as a platform for hope and humanitarian impact.
Al Suwaidi praised the strong local participation and institutional support in making the event a success. “Rio de Janeiro witnessed a powerful and inspiring scene that united sport and humanity, reflecting the depth of relations between the UAE and Brazil,” he said.
“Hosting the run here carries special diplomatic significance, strengthening our strategic ties and opening new avenues for collaboration in humanitarian, sporting and cultural fields.
“We were deeply moved by the participation of professionals, amateurs and families alike, and by the strong backing from partners such as the Municipality of Rio de Janeiro and the Getulio Vargas Foundation. Dedicating the proceeds to Rio Solidario truly reflects the UAE’s commitment to compassion and supporting communities wherever they are.”
The run concluded with the announcement that registration is now open for the home staging next in Abu Dhabi, which will take place on November 29.
The organisers invited all enthusiasts to join the flagship event through the official event website, continuing the spirit of giving that defines the initiative.
