🇲🇦Le Matin·1 hour ago
Soufiane El Bakkali wins 3,000m steeplechase at Mohammed VI International Meeting with world-leading time
Moroccan runner Soufiane El Bakkali secured a victory in the 3,000m steeplechase at the Mohammed VI International Meeting, held at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Olympic Stadium. El Bakkali, a double Olympic and world champion, achieved the best world performance of the year with a time of 7 minutes, 57 seconds, and 25 hundredths. He stated that this win, marking the third stage of the Diamond League, motivates him to pursue the ultimate 3,000m steeplechase world record of 7 minutes, 53 seconds, and 63 hundredths. El Bakkali noted that starting his season with such a strong time reinforces his quest for the world record, which he believes requires specific conditions, rigorous preparation, and a well-defined strategy. He acknowledged the high level of competition, particularly from Kenyan, Ethiopian, and European athletes. El Bakkali views this victory as a positive sign for upcoming events in Stockholm and Doha, as well as the Los Angeles Olympic Games. The Mohammed VI International Meeting, held under the High Patronage of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, brought together athletes from 40 countries, including Olympic and world champions. The event is a collaboration between the Ministry of National Education, Preschool and Sports, the Moroccan National Olympic Committee, the Royal Moroccan Athletics Federation, and the Rabat-Salé-Kénitra region.