Doha, Qatar: His Excellency Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani, President of the Qatar Olympic Committee, attended the Qatar Olympic Committee Half Marathon 2025 and the Team Qatar Village events organized today in Lusail, coinciding with the National Sports Day.
The first-ever Qatar Olympic Committee Half Marathon 2025, held at Lusail Boulevard as part of the National Sports Day celebrations, saw an incredible turnout with over 6,000 participants. The event brought together citizens, residents, officials, athletes, amateurs, and people from all ages, cultures, and backgrounds, making it a truly exceptional occasion.
His Excellency Jassim bin Rashid Al Buainain, Secretary-General of the Qatar Olympic Committee, along with senior officials from the QOC and national sports federations, crowned over 80 winners across the four race categories. The ceremony took place in front of a large and enthusiastic crowd, including QOC officials, Directors of departments Heads of Sections and Units, employees, and their families, beautifully embodying the Olympic principle of "solidarity” a key value of the International Olympic Movement.
Men, women, youth, and children took part in four exciting categories suited for various ages and fitness levels: 21 km Half Marathon, 10 km Race, 5 km Race, and the 1 km Fun Run.
The QOC organized a variety of sports and entertainment events accompanying the Half Marathon race in Team Qatar Village in Al Sa’ad Plaza in Darb Lusail, with the attendance of a number of VIP guests and senior figures in the country, and Mr. Ali Al-Ali, The CEO of Qatari Diar. This was done in cooperation with several national sports federations, namely: Qatar Athletics Federation - Qatar Basketball Federation - Qatar Football Association - Qatar Handball Federation - Qatar Volleyball Federation - Qatar Shooting Federation - Qatar Golf Federation - Qatar Taekwondo, Judo and Karate Federation.
On this occasion, His Excellency Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani, President of the Qatar Olympic Committee said:” We are delighted to return to Lusail Boulevard, a venue that holds such cherished memories from the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, to host the inaugural Qatar Olympic Committee Half Marathon in 2025. This event provides a wonderful opportunity for us to come together once again under the banner of sport. This year, we are championing the sport of running, inviting enthusiasts of all cultures, backgrounds, and ages to participate in the Half Marathon. Through this event, we send a clear message to the world: Qatar is a nation that embraces sport and peace. This event also marks an exciting new chapter of progress and excellence for our sporting and Olympic movement, made possible by the grace of God and the unwavering support of our wise leadership”.
“Continuing a valued tradition, our national sports federations will be present in Team Qatar Village, alongside our athletes, to encourage community participation in this annual celebration. Together, we will underscore the vital role of sport in human development, a cornerstone of the Qatar National Vision 2030” added H.E QOC President.
For his part, H.E QOC Secretary General, Mr. Jassim bin Rashid Al Buainain said:” We are excited for the overwhelming response from all segments of Qatari society – citizens and expats of various ages, backgrounds, and cultures – to the first edition of the Qatar Olympic Committee Half Marathon 2025, held as part of the State Sports Day activities. This occasion is dear to our hearts and reflects the nation's commitment to raising awareness of the importance of sports in promoting physical health”.
His Excellency added, "The Qatar Olympic Committee has achieved remarkable success in conveying and disseminating its values among all participating age groups, both in the race itself and in the accompanying sports and recreational events of Team Qatar Village."
His Excellency confirmed ,” This race will become one of our most important community sports events, through which we aim to raise the level of awareness among individuals and society of all ages and backgrounds about the importance of sports and physical activity in building successful generations that contribute to moving our country to new horizons of success and excellence”.
His Excellency appreciated the collective efforts said: “ On this occasion, we extend our sincere thanks to the working teams and committees, all national sports federations, partners, and sponsors who contributed to the realization of this event, and in appreciation of their tireless efforts and distinguished contributions in producing this race in a manner that has won everyone's admiration”
For her part, Sheikha Asmaa bint Thani Al-Thani, Director of Marketing and International Cooperation Sector at the Qatar Olympic Committee, shared:"Our main goal in organizing this historic race was to raise awareness about the importance of sports for individuals and communities and to spread this inspiring message worldwide. This helps strengthen Qatar's position on the global sports stage while showcasing its organizational and technical capabilities in hosting events. Team Qatar Village at Al Sa'ad Plaza, Lusail Boulevard serves as a microcosm of a diverse world, sending a message of peace and unity through sports."
She added, "The atmosphere at Team Qatar Village reflects the core values of the Qatar Olympic Committee: inclusivity, solidarity, unity, diversity, and sustainability. These principles play a key role in building strong, respectful sporting communities that embrace diversity, promote sustainable sports, and preserve their legacy for future generations. I also want to thank the media outlets for their exceptional coverage of every stage of the race."
Commenting on the event, Sheikh Khalifa bin Khalid Al Thani, Director of the Sports Sector at the Qatar Olympic Committee, said: "First, I would like to congratulate the organizing committee of the QOC- Half Marathon and its partners for an outstanding success that exceeded all expectations. I hope this achievement continues for years to come”.
Sheikh Khalifa added: “Our goal today was to create activities that bring people together, regardless of age or ability. Sports have the power to unite communities, offering a fun and rewarding experience that enhances both physical and mental well-being—not just for individuals, but for society as a whole”.
Sheikh Khalifa concluded:” The national sports federations played a key role in Team Qatar Village, engaging Qatari and expatriate families, introducing them to different sports, and inspiring participation. This has truly been a remarkable source of motivation for the entire community on National Sports Day."
On other hand, Eng. Fahad Abdullatif Al Jahrami, Chief Development and Asset Management Officer, at Qatari Diar, stated: "We at Qatari Diar are proud to host the Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC) Half Marathon 2025 at Lusail Boulevard, which serves as a comprehensive platform for hosting exceptional events, reaffirming its pivotal role in promoting a healthy lifestyle and enhancing quality of life in our community”.
He added: “ Our participation in this event stems from our belief in the race's objectives of encouraging sports as a sustainable lifestyle”.
Mr. Al Jahrami also said: “ We are also pleased to further strengthen our ongoing partnership with the Qatar Olympic Committee, which is a key component of Qatari Diar's vision of fostering successful collaboration between the public and private sectors. This partnership exemplifies a national effort to enhance Qatar's position as a global sports destination and deliver unique experiences that contribute to achieving Qatar National Vision 2030."
The QOC Half Marathon 2025 has received a perfect support from an esteemed group of national partners and sponsors, including: Official Sponsors: Doha Bank & Al Rayan Bank, Host Partner: Qatari Diar, Supporting Partners, The Look, Lab Recovery, Baladi Express, Al Rayan Mineral Water, Government & Infrastructure Partners: Ministry of Interior & Qatar Rail, Sporting Partners: Qetaifan Islands & Qatar Athletics Federation.
Most notably, the Volunteers played a key role in the success of the race, carrying out their tasks with dedication and enthusiasm. They helped participants, provided guidance, and ensured everyone followed the correct race routes.
Likewise, the QOC Half Marathon’s organizing committee carefully stationed volunteers in four key areas along Lusail Boulevard, ensuring smooth operations and upholding Qatar’s esteemed reputation in the global sports arena.
With this race, the Qatar Olympic Committee aims to promote a culture of sports, inspiring people of all ages and backgrounds to stay active, laying the foundation for a strong, healthy, and connected community.
