The 10th edition of the Ultra Mirage El Djerid, held from October 2-4, 2026, brought together over 600 runners from Tunisia, Europe, Australia, and Poland. The event took place in the Tunisian desert, where athletes faced challenging conditions, including scorching sun, moving dunes, dry riverbeds, and isolated oases. The competition offered four formats, ranging from 25 kilometers to 161 kilometers, with each runner wearing a GPS tracker for safety and real-time tracking.
The Ultra Mirage El Djerid is not just a competition, but an immersive experience that emphasizes equality and sustainability. The event features equal prize money for men and women and prioritizes environmental responsibility. Mohamed Baratli, a Tunisian athlete from Bizerte, won the 161-kilometer race, finishing ahead of Nizar Barkia and Aymen Amri. Leila Annabi secured the top spot in the women's category.
Abderrahim Zhiou dominated the 100-kilometer men's category, while Polish athlete Alicja Szkamruk took the top spot in the women's division. Safwen Allagui and Mejda Alila excelled in the 50-kilometer race, and Mohamed Abassi and Australian Claire Anderson emerged victorious in the 25-kilometer category. The victories of these Tunisian athletes highlight the country's growing presence in endurance sports.
Mohamed Baratli's win is particularly notable, given his background and lack of familiarity with the desert environment. Hailing from Bizerte, in northern Tunisia, Baratli is accustomed to running along the Mediterranean coast. His triumph in the desert demonstrates his adaptability and endurance. In September 2025, Baratli completed a 540-kilometer solidarity run in support of Gaza, showcasing his commitment to social causes.
The 10th edition of the Ultra Mirage El Djerid was marked by its exceptional organization and record participation. The event has become a major fixture in the global ultratrail calendar, combining athletic performance, human values, and cultural exchange. The competition has provided a platform for Tunisian athletes to shine and has promoted the country's sports scene.
The Ultra Mirage El Djerid has become a premier event in the world of ultratrail running, attracting athletes from around the globe. The competition's emphasis on equality, sustainability, and social responsibility sets it apart from other events. As the event continues to grow, it is likely to remain a key milestone in the sports calendar, with Mohamed Baratli's victory serving as a testament to the strength of Tunisian athletes.
Key points
- Mohamed Baratli wins the 161-kilometer Ultra Mirage El Djerid race.
- The event promotes equality and sustainability in sports.
- Over 600 runners participated in the 10th edition of the Ultra Mirage El Djerid.
