Exciting Developments for the Upcoming Marathon
Casablanca is set to energize the streets with the vibrant spirit of "Vibe Casa" on October 25, as the city gears up to host the 17th edition of the Crédit du Maroc Casablanca Marathon. This year, the event is expected to attract around 15,000 participants from 60 different countries, featuring three distinct race formats. Under the High Patronage of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, this year’s marathon aims to elevate both the competitive sporting aspect and the overall experience offered to runners.
A New Era for the Casablanca Marathon
Organized for the second consecutive year by the Association of Runners of Greater Casablanca with the support of public authorities, this edition signifies a notable milestone with Crédit du Maroc stepping in as the naming partner. Consequently, the marathon has been officially branded as the Crédit du Maroc Casablanca Marathon. One of the most significant advancements is its sporting recognition; both the marathon and half-marathon have been included in the official calendar of World Athletics Label Road Races for 2026. The marathon's course is also set to receive World Athletics certification, alongside being awarded the Elite Label, which entails stringent requirements regarding organization, safety, sports regulations, and anti-doping measures.
The sporting lineup is promising, featuring a strong presence of both Moroccan and international athletes. Notable female participants include Fatima Ezzahra Gardadi, Soukaina Atanane, and Kaltoum Bouaasariya, while the men's roster boasts talents such as El Hassan El Abbassi, Abayneh Degu Tsehay, and Workineh Tadese Mandefro. In an effort to enhance competitiveness, organizers have also increased the prize money for athletes.
The marathon will maintain its distance of 42.195 km, complemented by a half-marathon of 21.097 km and a relay race divided into teams covering four segments of 10.5 km each. The course has been redesigned to allow participants to traverse various urban landscapes and iconic locations throughout Casablanca. A new mobile application will accompany participants before, during, and after the race, incorporating a live tracking system that allows friends and spectators to monitor runners' progress on a map.
In an innovative move, the marathon will feature the Challenge 421, a first in Morocco, where walkers with disabilities can join in the final 421 meters of the race, crossing the finish line alongside the runners. This initiative is championed by civil society and organizations dedicated to advocating for the rights of people with disabilities.
The festivities will kick off prior to race day, with the Marathon Village taking place from October 21 to 24 at the Espace Sacré-Cœur. This four-day event will include bib collection, sports and recreational activities, partner meet-and-greets, and awareness campaigns focused on eco-responsibility and health.
On the race day itself, approximately 1,000 volunteers will be mobilized to support the event. The medical team will comprise 16 doctors, 24 nurses, and 12 medical ambulances will be deployed, with defibrillators strategically placed along the course and a command center established to coordinate emergency services. The organization aims to ensure that medical assistance reaches any runner in distress within four minutes.
This 17th edition of the marathon seeks to forge a deeper connection between Casablanca and the event, encapsulated in the "Vibe Casa" concept, which celebrates the movement, diversity, and energy of the city. Runners, families, volunteers, clubs, businesses, and local residents are all invited to partake in an event that the organizers hope will be both a sporting triumph and a community celebration.
As reported by lenouvelliste.ma.
