Rio de Janeiro performed host to the second leg of the 2025–2026 Zayed Charity Run, drawing over 3,000 individuals from across the globe, together with greater than 200 from the UAE. The occasion marked the initiative’s debut in South America and turned heads with a spirited mixture of sport, solidarity, and cross‑cultural goodwill.
The UAE contingent celebrated a convincing victory within the 5 km males’s race with a clear sweep of the rostrum. Rashid Al Naqbi took gold, Saud Al Zaabi claimed silver, and Saif Al Alawi accomplished the trio with bronze. Throughout all classes, Emirati runners collected 5 medals – one gold, two silver, and two bronze, whereas native Brazilian rivals earned the remaining seven.
Winners have been honoured in ceremonies led by His Excellency Sharif Essa AlSuwaidi, UAE Ambassador to Brazil, and Lt. Gen. (Rtd.) Mohamed Helal Al Kaabi, Chairman of the Increased Organizing Committee of the Zayed Charity Run, within the presence of senior Rio de Janeiro officers.
The Rio version bolstered the Run’s place as a globally recognised humanitarian sporting occasion, devoted to weaving connections throughout communities. Proceeds from this iteration will profit Rio Solidario, a Brazilian non‑revenue working with susceptible youngsters, girls and households – underscoring the Run’s mission to translate athletic endeavour into tangible social affect.
Lt. Gen. (Rtd.) Mohamed Helal Al Kaabi expressed his satisfaction within the occasion’s success, saying: “We’re pleased with the excellent success achieved by this Run, each in its humanitarian affect and organizational excellence. The outstanding public engagement displays the worldwide stature the Zayed Charity Run has reached. Brazil represents a particular milestone inside our three new worldwide locations, following Beijing final month and forward of Budapest in Could 2026.” He added: “Since its inception in 2001, the values of generosity that this Run upholds have been the muse of its progress and success, highlighting the UAE’s main position in humanitarian causes and international cooperation. The Zayed Charity Run has turn out to be a logo of our nation’s dedication to giving and solidarity amongst peoples.”
His Excellency Sharif Essa AlSuwaidi praised the host metropolis’s involvement and institutional backing, noting: “Rio de Janeiro witnessed a robust and galvanizing scene that united sport and humanity, reflecting the depth of relations between the UAE and Brazil. Internet hosting the Run right here carries particular diplomatic significance, strengthening our strategic ties and opening new avenues for collaboration in humanitarian, sporting, and cultural fields.” He continued: “We have been deeply moved by the enthusiastic participation of the Brazilian group, from professionals and amateurs to households, and by the help of key native entities such because the Municipality of Rio de Janeiro and the Getulio Vargas Basis. Dedicating the proceeds to Rio Solidario actually displays the UAE’s dedication to compassion, solidarity, and supporting communities wherever they’re.”
The Rio leg concluded with a name to motion for the subsequent version: the Abu Dhabi Run, set to happen on 29 November 2025, is now open for registration. Organisers have invited sports activities and charity fans to affix and carry ahead the spirit of this nationwide humanitarian endeavour.
Since its inception in 2001, the Zayed Charity Run has grown into a worldwide motion, partaking tons of of hundreds of runners and elevating significant help for hospitals, charities and analysis establishments, an everlasting tribute to the UAE’s values of generosity and international outreach.
