The Samla International Race has announced the signing of a series of strategic partnership agreements ahead of its upcoming edition, scheduled to take place on 24 January 2026. The agreements were formalised during an official ceremony attended by representatives from partner entities and members of the media.
Sponsorship agreements were signed with several prominent partners and sponsors for this edition, including Katara Hospitality, Qatar Insurance Group, Defender – Al Fardan, and Mazzraty. Representatives from Red Bull were also in attendance as the official beverage partner. Collectively, these partnerships underscore a shared commitment to delivering an exceptional edition that reflects the stature and significance of this landmark sporting event.
In addition, the ceremony also witnessed the signing of a partnership agreement between the Samla Race, Visit Qatar, and ASICS, which will serve as the official sportswear partner of the race. The agreement was signed in the presence of Mr. Azzam Al Mannai, Chief Executive Officer of the Samla Race Organising Committee; Mr. Jassim Al Mahmoud, Director of Public Relations and Communications at Visit Qatar; and Mr. Seiji Hori, General Manager of ASICS Arabia. The strategic partnership with a leading global brand such as ASICS adds significant value, enhancing the race's technical standards and ensuring optimal support for participants.
Attendees at the event were also presented with a short video unveiling the official course for the 2026 race, which features six consecutive, high-challenge stages designed to test competitors’ physical endurance. The course begins with a 3-kilometre open-water swim, followed by a 21-kilometre run, a 22-kilometre mountain biking segment, a 4-kilometre kayaking stage, a second 22-kilometre cycling segment, and concludes with a demanding 28-kilometre run to the finish line.
Commenting on the partnership, Mr. Jassim Al Mahmoud, Director of Public Relations and Communications at Visit Qatar said: “At Visit Qatar, we take pride in our strategic partnership with the Samla International Race, which represents the values of strength and endurance. Our support for this event aligns with our strategy to promote sports tourism and to highlight events that offer distinctive experiences for visitors and residents alike, while showcasing the natural and cultural assets of the State of Qatar.”
For his part, Mr. Azzam Al Mannai, CEO of the Samla Race Organizing Committee, expressed his appreciation for this collaboration, stating: “Today marks an important milestone in the journey of the Samla Race through the signing of these agreements with our partners. The continued support from Visit Qatar, alongside our sponsors and partners, provides strong momentum to further enhance organisational standards and deliver a world-class competitive experience for both participants and spectators.”
In partnership with Visit Qatar, the upcoming edition of the Samla Race is expanding to the global stage, inviting elite male and female athletes from around the world to compete in a uniquely challenging test of strength and stamina across Qatar’s diverse landscapes.
With the launch of Samla International, Qatar continues to strengthen its reputation as a world-class destination for sporting events. As the race welcomes global competitors for the first time, it not only showcases the nation’s distinctive landscape but also reflects Visit Qatar’s ongoing commitment to advancing sports tourism and delivering exceptional, world-class experiences for athletes and fans from around the globe.
For more information about the inaugural edition of the Samla International Race, please visit the following link: https://visitqatar.com/intl-en/events-calendar/samla
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