Samla International Race secures strategic partnerships ahead of January '26 edition
The Samla International Race has announced the signing of a series of strategic partnership agreements ahead of its upcoming edition, scheduled for January 24.Sponsorship agreements were signed with several prominent partners and sponsors for this edition, including Katara Hospitality, Qatar Insurance Group, Defender–Alfardan, and Mazzraty, held Thursday at Al Sharq Village.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 Azzam al-Mannai, CEO of the Samla Race Organising Committee; Jassim al-Mahmoud, director of Public Relations and Communications at Visit Qatar; and Seiji Hori, general manager of Asics Arabia.The official course for the 2026 race features six consecutive, high-challenge stages designed to test competitors’ physical endurance. The course begins with a 3km open-water swim, followed by a 21km run, a 22km mountain biking segment, a 4km kayaking stage, a second 22km cycling segment, and concludes with a 28km run to the finish line.“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,” al-Mahmoud said.Al-Mannai expressed his appreciation for this collaboration, saying that: “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, organisers said Qatar continues to strengthen its reputation as a world-class destination for sporting events.