HAVANA — Thousands of runners took to the streets Sunday for Cuba’s premier international marathon, with many participants using the event to voice opposition to U.S. economic sanctions.
Held each November to mark the founding of Havana, the Marabana marathon winds through the city’s most iconic thoroughfares and landmarks, including Paseo del Prado and the Capitol building. Numerous runners displayed signs expressing solidarity with Cuba.
“Cuba is not a threat; the blockade is,” read the messages on signs worn by many of the approximately 3,000 participants.
The United States first imposed its embargo on Cuba in 1960, following Fidel Castro’s revolution that ousted dictator Fulgencio Batista and led to the nationalization of U.S.-owned properties. The Caribbean nation has faced decades of economic hardship, a situation that intensified after President Donald Trump announced in late January that tariffs would be levied on any country selling or supplying oil to Cuba.
The measure has effectively severed fuel supplies to the island, triggering widespread power outages that disrupt water, internet, and telephone services.
“The blockade is suffocating the Cuban people,” said Yuraldi Cava, a 58-year-old state employee, while running. “We are going to win this fight.”
Mayté Vigoa, Havana’s provincial sports coordinator, said the city undertook a significant effort to stage the international race amid the island’s dire economic conditions. She confirmed that Adidas, a longtime sponsor, did not provide support this year.
Other firms with longstanding ties to Cuba, including Meliá Hotels International, announced they are withdrawing from the island as sanctions tighten.
Runners included families with children and people with disabilities, many dressed in sportswear and carrying water bottles, while enthusiastic spectators cheered from the sidewalks.
Among those protesting the sanctions were foreigners wearing red-and-white sweatshirts bearing the message “Cuba is not alone.”
Recognized by the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races, the event allows runners to use their times as official qualifying marks. It also includes a half-marathon alongside the popular 10-kilometer and 5-kilometer races.
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