Usain Bolt doesn’t do quiet appearances — and this last week, runners in Doha found that out first-hand.
What started as a simple community shakeout run at Khalifa International Stadium quickly became something far bigger when the fastest man in history made a surprise appearance, sending energy levels through the roof and turning an ordinary evening run into a memorable sporting moment in the Qatari capital.
The event, hosted by PUMA in partnership with the Qatar Athletics Federation, brought together runners, athletes, creators and sports fans from across the country, all expecting a relaxed 1.5km shakeout run.
It was safe to say that none were expecting Olympic 100 meter champion Bolt to rock-up on the track.
The Jamaican icon not only greeted the runners, but stayed on to cheer on participants taking part in a friendly 100m Bolt Sprint Challenge, where separate men’s and women’s heats gave everyday runners the rare chance to race on the same Khalifa International Stadium track that has hosted some of the region's biggest moments in athletics.
The event rounded-off with Bolt joining sports and media personality Hadeel Riyad for a live Q&A, offering fans a closer insight into the mindset, career and personality behind one of the most iconic figures in global sport.
Attendees were also able to test PUMA’s latest NITRO running innovations via an on-site NITRO Van activation matching PUMA footwear to individual running needs — blending performance, product and experience in a way that felt genuinely community-led.
The atmosphere was elevated further by the presence of Mutaz Barshim, alongside PUMA Middle East athletes and leading regional content creators, many of whom captured and shared the night with their audiences.
Supported by partners including Red Bull, Oakberry and Burgeri, the activation drew a strong turnout from Qatar’s running community — reinforcing the country’s growing reputation as a serious hub for athletics participation, not just elite competition.
Johan Kuhlo, Managing Director GCC at PUMA, said the activation was about more than star power.
He said: “Qatar has one of the most passionate and fast-growing running communities in the region, and our goal continues to be supporting, elevating, and being part of it. Bringing Usain Bolt to Doha was an incredible moment, not just for the brand, but for the community, and a way of giving back to people who show up with so much energy. Seeing everyday runners, kids, and seasoned athletes share the same space is exactly what running is about, and it’s what PUMA will continue championing here in Qatar.”
The following day, and Bolt headed from the track to visit the nearby Newton International Academy Lusail, leading students through a fun, movement-led session before officially opening PUMA’s new store at Doha Festival City.
He later met fans during an exclusive public meet-and-greet at the store, marking a major moment in the brand’s continued expansion in Qatar.
The Doha activation forms part of PUMA’s broader push to grow its running presence across the GCC, extending beyond the UAE into key markets like Qatar, home to some of the region’s most prominent World Athletics-validated races.
