The Moroccan middle-distance runner Soufiane El Bakkali claimed the 3000-metre steeplechase gold at the Tokyo Olympics with a time of 8:08.90, effectively ending a decades-long streak of dominance held by Kenyan athletes. Born in Fez in 1996, he has since established himself as a central figure in international athletics through consistent success at both the Olympic and World Championship levels.
Early Career and International Debut
El Bakkali began his competitive journey as a junior, placing fourth at the 2014 World Junior Championships in Athletics. His senior transition occurred the same year at the African Championships, where he finished tenth. By 2016, after clocking a personal best of 8:14.41 at the Herculis meeting, he qualified for the Summer Olympics in Rio, ultimately finishing fourth in the final with an improved time of 8:14.35.
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The runner secured his first major global medal by taking silver at the 2017 World Championships in London. He earned a bronze medal two years later in Doha before his breakthrough in Tokyo. Following his 2020 Olympic victory, he sustained his momentum by winning consecutive World Championship gold medals in 2022 and 2023. At the 2024 Paris Olympics, he defended his title by overtaking American runner Kenneth Rooks in the final straightaway to finish in 8:06.05.
Record Performances and Recognition
Beyond championship medals, El Bakkali has set notable marks in the circuit. In 2022, he achieved the Diamond League title and recorded an African best in the 2000-metre steeplechase at the Hanžeković Memorial. His personal best in the 3000-metre steeplechase of 7:56.68, set in Rabat in 2023, remains the fastest time in that event globally over the last eleven years. In 2024, his contributions to the sport were formally recognized when he was named Commander of the Order of the Throne.
Fast facts
- Born: 7 January 1996, Fez, Morocco
- Primary Event: 3000 metres steeplechase
- Olympic Medals: Gold (2020, 2024)
- World Championship Gold: 2022, 2023
- 2022 Diamond League champion
- Personal Best (3000m steeplechase): 7:56.68
- Award: Commander of the Order of the Throne, 2024
Questions readers ask
Has El Bakkali ever won the Diamond League?
Yes, he claimed his first Diamond Trophy in 2022 following the final in Zürich.
What is his involvement in humanitarian efforts?
He donated blood for victims of the 2023 Marrakesh-Safi earthquake.
