Spanish Star Mohamed Katir Aims for Olympic Gold in 5000m Final

The Spanish athlete of Moroccan origin is in the 5000 meters final at the Tokyo Olympics and wants to return to Spain with the Olympic medal, after breaking all national records. "My only goal is to be an Olympic champion," Katir said. "There are a lot more experienced people than me here, I’m coming as a rookie, to enjoy it. It’s not a horse race, it’s very difficult to get a medal at certain Games," he added.

To read: Spanish-Moroccan Runner Mohamed Katir Shatters National Records, Eyes Olympic Medal

Arrived from Morocco at the age of 4 with his parents, Katir obtained Spanish nationality in 2019 after a long struggle. Since then, he has gradually emerged and, through hard work, has become the record holder of Spanish athletics. Much to the chagrin of Isaac Viciosa, whose record he beat in the 3000 meters and who declared in an interview with Soy Corredor "that he would have liked to be dethroned by an athlete with a Castilian name".

The 5000 meters final at the Tokyo Olympics is tomorrow. "This kiss is dedicated to my parents and grandparents. For having educated me, for having taught me to value the things that are really important. I am proud to have the warmth of my city. A message for the children: there is no talent here, I don’t believe in genetics or luck. It’s endurance, hard work, believing, dreaming a lot," Katir posted on his Instagram account.