The new futuristic running league’s opener was initially poised for May 9 and 10.
The inaugural event of the endurance racing series RunGP will now be held on October 2 and 3 in Qatar’s Lusail International Circuit instead of the pre-announced dates, according to its organisers.
Backed by multiple-time Olympic and World champion Sir Mo Farah, the series aims to bring together elite athletes and running enthusiasts alike to compete on existing Formula One circuits around the world. The curtain raiser was initially announced to be held on 9 and 10 May.
“The updated schedule follows a full review of operational timelines, local conditions and launch readiness,” RunGP said in a statement.
“Rather than compromise on the experience we believe the event should deliver, we made the decision to shift the date to ensure the strongest possible start.”
Lusail will host the first event as planned, with Qatar remaining a key destination for the series, the statement added. Other races are yet to be announced.
“Qatar continues to play a vital role in the future of the RunGP series,” it said. “We are fully committed to bringing a world-class event to Lusail and to building a strong and lasting presence in the region.
What is RunGP?
Announced during the Web Summit Qatar 2025, RunGP aims to unite elite competition and mass participation by introducing a “team-based format, Web3-powered engagement, and immersive race day experiences” in what the organisers then claimed would be creating a new category in sports entertainment.
Among its ambitious plans are the introduction of futuristic graphics with biometric tracking of the runners, as well as “socially sponsored teams.”
The ultimate goal is to “make running exciting again”, Farah told Doha News on the sidelines of the announcement in February.
“It will give running a new set of energy,” Farah said. “It will allow everyone to be a part of the league, not just from the elite level, but also the amateur level.”
The first day of the event, on October 3, will be the Moonlight Circuit, which the organisers said will be a night race consisting of “LED lit tracks and visual storytelling”.
The second day will include the final race, in addition to two other races open for amateurs: One Mo Mile and the RunGP Qatar 7.032KM.
Registration for the races, except for the final,l will remain open, RunGP’s latest statement said, adding preparations will continue in full swing. “This revised timing allows us to deliver the experience and atmosphere our runners, partners, and supporters expect from day one.”
