Amebaw and Hafashimana Claim Victory at Cross Internacional de Zornotza
Ethiopia’s Likina Amebaw and Burundi’s Emile Hafashimana captured the titles at the Cross Internacional de Zornotza in Amorebieta, the opening event of the 2025–2026 World Athletics Cross Country Gold Tour.
Women’s Race
The 8.7 km women’s race began at a cautious pace, with Portugal’s Mariana Machado taking early control through the first two kilometres in 3:34 and 3:39. She was closely followed by Spain’s Majida Maayouf and Naima Ait Alibou, while pre-race favourite Likina Amebaw sat comfortably in the leading pack.
As the race unfolded, Maayouf and Amebaw increased the tempo, breaking away with a seven-woman group. With 3 km remaining, Amebaw surged decisively to the front, opening a commanding gap as Machado led the chasers. The Ethiopian clocked 3:13 for the seventh kilometre and closed with strong final laps of 6:49 and 6:43 to secure victory in 30:21, 21 seconds ahead of Machado. Ait Alibou finished third in 30:56.
Amebaw earned her second career win in Amorebieta, having previously triumphed here in 2023.
“I’m very satisfied with my second win here to start the season,” said Amebaw. “The World Cross Country Championships in January are my next big goal, and I plan to race in Seville on November 9 as part of my build-up.”
Men’s Race
Burundi’s Emile Hafashimana took control from the gun, covering the opening kilometre in 2:56, trailed by compatriots Elie Sindayikengdera and Thierry Irakoze, and Spanish contenders Nassim Hassaous and Yahya Aouina.
Hafashimana extended his lead steadily, passing the first lap in 5:38 and building an eight-second advantage. Mid-race splits of 5:45 and 5:50 widened the gap to 15 seconds at halfway. In the closing stages, Hassaous mounted a strong challenge, narrowing the deficit, but Hafashimana held firm to take the win in 25:50, just two seconds ahead of Hassaous (25:52). Aouina completed the podium in 26:03.
