Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan recently presided over the 17th edition of the Mohammed VI International Athletics Meeting, held at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat. This prestigious event marked Morocco's hosting of the third leg of the 2026 Diamond League season, a significant highlight on the global athletics calendar that attracted some of the most renowned names in track and field. The meeting was broadcasted live across 150 television channels worldwide, amplifying its reach and impact.
One of the standout moments of the day came from Moroccan athlete Soufiane El Bakkali, who showcased his exceptional talent by winning the men’s 3000m steeplechase with a remarkable time of 7 minutes and 57.25 seconds. This victory not only secured him the win but also established the world's best time for the year, placing him ahead of competitors Frederick Ruppert from Germany and Kenya’s Simon Kiprop Koech.
Upon his arrival at the Olympic Stadium, Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan was greeted with honors from a detachment of the Royal Guard before meeting several dignitaries present at the event. Among those in attendance were Minister of National Education, Preschool and Sports Mohamed Saad Berrada, President of the Moroccan National Olympic Committee Faïçal Laraichi, and several regional officials, including Rabat Mayor Fatiha El Moudni.
The Crown Prince also took the time to engage with key figures in athletics, such as Abdeslam Ahizoune, the President of the Royal Moroccan Athletics Federation, and Diamond League Director Petr Stastny. Following these interactions, he took his seat in the official stand, where he was treated to a performance of the Moroccan national anthem and the symbolic release of balloons to mark the commencement of the competition. Throughout the evening, attendees witnessed a series of thrilling events, with numerous athletes setting new records at the meeting.
Initiated on June 14, 2008, the Mohammed VI International Athletics Meeting is a cornerstone of the Royal Moroccan Athletics Federation's strategy to advance the sport in accordance with the High Directives of King Mohammed VI. The event has been supported by World Athletics and the Confederation of African Athletics, transitioning from the IAAF World Challenge circuit from 2010 to 2015 to its current status in the Diamond League since 2016.
Notably, Morocco remains the sole African nation to host a Diamond League meeting. The 2026 season is set to run from May 16 to September 5, featuring 15 meetings across various countries, including China, Italy, Sweden, and the United States, with the season finals scheduled for September 4 and 5 in Belgium. This annual competition not only elevates Rabat's international stature but also contributes significantly to the city's profile as a cultural and athletic hub, having been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2012.
As reported by moroccoworldnews.com.
