Zayed Charity Run unites more than 2,000 runners in Rio de Janeiro

The Zayed Charity Run concluded its second edition in Rio de Janeiro on Sunday, bringing together more than 2,000 runners from Rio, alongside 50 runners from the UAE at Flamengo Beach in a vibrant celebration of sport, community and humanitarian giving.

Professional athletes, amateur runners, families and participants from diverse backgrounds took part in the 5K and 10K runs, alongside a programme of community activities and entertainment that reflected the inclusive spirit of the event.

The 2026 edition offered a total prize pool exceeding BRL 500,000 (over AED 356,000), with awards presented to leading male and female finishers across both distances, in addition to cash prizes and Emirates Airline ticket draws.

In the 5K category, Vitor Ferreira Dos Santos claimed first place in the men’s division, while Djenyfer Arnold secured top spot in the women’s division.

In the 10K category, Bekele Felene Tarniru topped the men’s field, with Aynalem Debele Ketema taking first place in the women’s division.

In the 5K PCD category, Jean Oliveira Da Silva claimed first place in the men’s division, while Antonia Keyla Da Silva Barros won the women’s division.

At the heart of the Rio de Janeiro edition was its humanitarian mission.

All registration proceeds will support Grupo Cultural AfroReggae through the Criança Esperança programme, contributing to initiatives focused on education, culture and social inclusion, while creating new opportunities for children and young people across participating communities.

"Beyond the competition, every edition carries forward the legacy of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and the values of giving, compassion and service to others. We are proud to see participants, partners and the wider community come together to create an impact that extends far beyond the finish line," said Lt. Gen. (Rtd.) Mohamed Helal Al Kaabi, Chairman of the Higher Organizing Committee of the Zayed Charity Run.

Since its launch in Abu Dhabi in 2001, the Zayed Charity Run has expanded its international presence across major cities including New York, Cairo, Miami, Beijing, Rio de Janeiro, Budapest and Addis Ababa, establishing itself as a global platform that connects sport with humanitarian action and brings communities together around the values of giving and solidarity.