NAIROBI — The stage is set for a blistering showdown in the desert sands of the UAE. Kenyan superstar Geoffrey Kamworor and Ethiopian sensation Ababel Yeshaneh have been confirmed as the headline acts for the 2026 Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) Half Marathon, promising a race that could rewrite the history books on February 14.

This is not just a race; it is a collision of the world’s finest distance runners on the planet’s fastest course. Kamworor, a three-time World Half Marathon champion, returns to the scene of his previous triumphs with a point to prove. Yeshaneh, a former world record holder, brings the ferocious competitiveness that defines Ethiopian athletics. Their participation elevates the RAK Half Marathon from a sporting event to a global athletics phenomenon.

Speed, Stamina, and Strategy

The RAK course is legendary for its flat, fast profile, often producing world-leading times. For Kamworor, 2026 is a critical year as he seeks to reassert his dominance after a season of mixed fortunes. His training camp in Kaptagat reports that the "Man of All Surfaces" is in lethal form. "Geoffrey is not going there to participate; he is going to dominate," a member of his coaching team confided.

On the women’s side, Ababel Yeshaneh’s return is a statement of intent. Her rivalry with Kenyan athletes has produced some of the most electrifying moments in recent marathon history. The duel in the desert will likely come down to the final kilometer, a test of pure grit under the Arabian sun.

• The Stakes: A significant prize purse and critical world ranking points are on the line.
• The Course: Known as the "World’s Fastest Half Marathon," RAK offers the perfect conditions for breaking records.
• The Rivalry: The eternal Kenya vs. Ethiopia battle continues, with national pride fueling every stride.

A Valentine’s Day Spectacle

Scheduled for Valentine’s Day, the race offers a romantic backdrop for a brutal contest of human endurance. While the world celebrates love, these athletes will be engaged in a war of attrition. For Kenyan fans watching from home, the hope is for a Kamworor masterclass to bring the title back to Nairobi.

As the athletes descend on Ras Al Khaimah, the athletics world holds its breath. Will we see a new world record? Or will tactical brilliance trump raw speed? One thing is certain: when Kamworor and Yeshaneh toe the line, history is usually made.