HIBAPRESS – Casablanca
Despite the endeavor to enhance Casablanca's radiance through major sporting events, the organization of the city's marathon, held last Sunday, October 25, 2026, on its seventeenth edition, has returned to the forefront of discussion, against the backdrop of observations and criticisms raised by a number of participants regarding some organizational aspects, especially during the post-finish line phase.
The most prominent observations conveyed by participants revolve around long waiting times to receive water bottles and snacks, amidst scenes of crowding and pushing, according to circulated testimonies. These observations raise questions about the suitability of the adopted arrangements for managing participant flow, especially in the moments following the completion of long running distances, when the speed and quality of service delivery are of particular importance.
These observations gain greater significance considering the scale of the event, as organizers had aimed to attract around 15,000 participants, within an edition characterized by the enhancement of the marathon's international character. The marathon received an "Elite" label from the International Association of Athletics Federations, with the marathon and half-marathon included in its official road racing program for 2026.
Between the ambition to elevate the event to the level of major international competitions and the expectations of the participating runners, the question of the quality of field management across all stages of the race emerges, and the extent to which the organization can ensure smooth services and avoid overcrowding, thereby preserving the dignity and safety of participants and providing them with suitable conditions to complete their sporting experience.
The success of the marathon is not only linked to the volume of participation, the value of the results achieved, or the image presented by the city to guests and foreign runners, but also includes the organizational details that participants experience on the ground, from water supply points to meal distribution, including crowd management upon arrival.
The repeated criticisms related to the organization also call for them to be addressed as an opportunity for evaluation and review, rather than merely celebrating the sporting and media outcomes of the event. It remains essential to understand the reasons for the shortcomings mentioned by participants, identify the points of failure, and work on taking practical measures to prevent their recurrence in future editions.
While awaiting clarifications from the organizing body regarding these observations, the need for a comprehensive evaluation of various organizational aspects remains, including the management of the post-finish line phase, as it is an integral part of the runner's experience and not just a minor detail in the race program.
Casablanca, with its economic and sporting importance, deserves major events that not only attract participants and achieve international acclaim but also ensure meticulous organization and services that meet their aspirations. Sports are not just about racing and podium photos; they also entail organizational responsibility and respect for participants' expectations.
