Doha Marathon by Ooredoo 2026 is set to welcome one of the world’s most successful distance runners, reigning Olympic Marathon Champion Tamirat Tola.
Tola’s participation underscores the event’s position as a premier global marathon destination for elite athletes and running enthusiasts.
Ethiopian-born Tola etched his name into the history books at the Paris 2024 Olympics, winning gold in the men’s marathon in an Olympic record 2:06:26. His victory was particularly notable as he was called up to the Ethiopian team as a late replacement after another Ethiopian withdrew due to injury, with Tola eventually becoming the first Ethiopian in 24 years to win Olympic marathon gold.
In addition to his Olympic victory, Tola has built one of the most consistent and impressive careers in modern distance running. Her accolades include a bronze medal in the 10,000m at the Rio 2016 Olympics, a silver medal in the marathon at the 2017 World Championships in London and a world marathon title at the 2022 World Athletics Championships in Eugene, setting a championship best time of 5:362. He also won the 2023 TCS New York City Marathon in a course record of 2:04:58 and set a personal best of 2:03:39 at the 2021 TCS Amsterdam Marathon.
His strength, discipline and remarkable consistency in the world’s major races make Tola’s appearance in Doha an exciting prospect for runners and spectators eager to witness a world-class performance on the streets of Doha.
“My journey has taught me to always be ready for the next challenge, and coming to Qatar as an Olympic champion is a powerful motivation. It’s an honor to join an event that inspires the next generation of runners, and I look forward to experiencing the incredible energy of the community in Doha.”
Welcoming Tola’s participation, Ooredoo’s Senior Director of Marketing Communications Sabah Rabia Al-Kuwari said: “We are proud to welcome Olympic champion Tamirat Tola to the Doha Marathon at Ooredoo 2026.
The Doha Marathon by Ooredoo has been awarded World Athletics Gold Label status for 2026, where it continues to attract world-class fields, strengthening Qatar’s position as a hub for global sporting events.
