The hosting of the One Run for All Global Marathon, sponsored by the Ministry of Sports and Youth and represented by the Qatar Sports for All Federation, has opened the door for community sports in Qatar. It has also provided an opportunity for Qatari amateur and non-professional athletes, as well as residents who engage in sports activities, to participate in global competitions. The event took place at the Lusail International Circuit, making Doha one of the global cities to organize this significant event. The marathon was held simultaneously in 16 countries and 96 Russian cities, with a total of 190,000 participants from around the world.

Participation numbers from the race showed a significant increase in Qatari involvement, with a total of 684 participants, including 513 men, 103 women, and 18 Qatari children. Overall, 1,500 participants from 83 nationalities took part, including 1,042 men and 413 women.

Abdullah Al-Dosari, Head of Activities and Events, highlighted the importance of the Ministry of Sports and Youth’s plans, implemented through the Qatar Sports for All Federation, in increasing the number of people participating in sports activities in the community. He stated that the success of the global race, despite the short preparation period, reflects previous efforts to promote sports activities and form running groups in Qatar. The numerous championships and races organized by the Sports for All Federation have created a base of participants who continuously engage and respond to the federation’s events. This strong participation directly contributed to the success of the global marathon.

Mr. Al-Dosari emphasized that community sports in Qatar have made significant strides in involving the public in sports activities through an annual calendar that sees an increasing number of events each year. In 2022, the calendar included 575 sports activities and events, which increased to 683 in 2023. This year, the calendar features approximately 720 sports and community championships. He noted that the expansion of community sports also helps utilize the modern sports facilities provided by the state, such as the Lusail Circuit, which hosted the global marathon. This marathon will become an annual event in Qatar, with the addition of the phrase “for all” to make the race open to men, women, and children, thereby enhancing the importance of community sports, which the Ministry of Sports and Youth highly prioritizes.