Bilbao, Spain – The 10K Bilbao Rural Kutxa race is set to welcome a star attraction this Saturday: Swiss distance runner Dominic Lobalu, the reigning European champion in the 10,000 meters. Organizers announced the addition of the 27-year-old Lobalu, hoping his presence will elevate the event and establish it as a key fixture on the international running calendar.
Lobalu arrives in Bilbao with a formidable resume. He secured the European title in the 10,000m at the 2024 European Championships in Rome, adding to a bronze medal in the 5,000 meters at the same competition. His versatility is further underscored by a bronze medal at the 2025 European Cross Country Championships, demonstrating his prowess across track, road, and cross-country disciplines.
The Swiss athlete isn’t just a championship performer. he’s a record-holder. Lobalu currently holds Swiss national records in the 3,000 meters (7:27.68), 5,000 meters (12:50.87), 10km (26:54), and the half marathon (59:12). He’s also a two-time Diamond League winner in the 3,000 meters, showcasing his ability to compete at the highest level of professional athletics.
Lobalu’s recent form suggests he’s primed for a strong performance in Bilbao. He finished second in the Barcelona Half Marathon on February 15th, clocking a time of 59:26, a result that confirmed his excellent condition for road racing. More recently, on March 1st, he claimed the Swiss indoor 3,000-meter championship with a time of 8:24.89.
The 10K Bilbao Rural Kutxa will also feature a competitive field beyond Lobalu. Burundi’s Elie Sindayikengdera, with a 5,000m personal best of 13:01.96, is considered a serious contender. Sindayikengdera is familiar with the region, having finished fourth at the Zornotza Cross in October. Italy’s Daniel Kiprotich Chelogoi, winner of the 10K White Marble Half Marathon in Marina di Carrara, and Great Britain’s Ben Connor (27:51.82 in the 10km) add further depth to the men’s race.
On the women’s side, Ethiopian Asayech Ayichew is expected to lead the pack. Ayichew finished fourth at the 2025 World Cross Country Championships in Tallahassee, Florida. She will face competition from Francine Niyomukunzi, the 2024 Zornotza Cross winner, and Spain’s Fátima Zahara Ouhaddou, the 2025 European marathon champion. Ecuadorian Katherine Tisalema and Idaira Prieto of Bilbao Atletismo Santutxu, the recent Spanish 10km champion, will also be in contention.
Organizers anticipate approximately 6,000 participants, including 5,000 in the 10K race and 1,000 in the accompanying children’s races. The event is sponsored by EL CORREO.
Lobalu’s participation is a significant boost for the 10K Bilbao, signaling the race’s growing ambition to attract top international talent. For fans of distance running, the event offers a chance to witness one of Europe’s brightest stars compete on a fast course in the Basque Country. The race is scheduled to begin at 18:00 local time (Central European Time) on Saturday, March 7th.
The addition of Lobalu to the field elevates the stakes for the 10K Bilbao. His recent successes, including a strong showing at the Barcelona Half Marathon and a dominant performance at the Swiss Indoor Championships, demonstrate his current form and competitive edge. The fast course in Bilbao presents an opportunity for Lobalu to challenge his personal best of 26:54 in the 10km, adding another layer of excitement for spectators.
Beyond the elite competition, the 10K Bilbao remains a popular event for local runners. The race provides a platform for both seasoned athletes and recreational runners to participate in a well-organized and scenic event. The inclusion of children’s races further enhances the community aspect of the competition.
As Lobalu prepares for his race on Saturday, all eyes will be on the Swiss champion to see if he can deliver another impressive performance. The 10K Bilbao promises to be a thrilling event, showcasing the best of European distance running and fostering a vibrant atmosphere for both participants and spectators.
The next confirmed competition for Dominic Lobalu is currently unconfirmed, but he is expected to continue competing in Diamond League events throughout the spring and summer. Follow Archysport for updates on his progress and results.
