Yavi Strikes Gold in Italy

Bahrain’s Olympic champion Winfred Yavi delivered another exceptional performance on the international stage, winning the women’s 6km race at the Cross di Alà dei Sardi – Memorial Elisa Migliore in Sardinia, Italy, on Sunday.

Competing in her second race of the season, Yavi crossed the line in 20:37, well ahead of Burundi’s Francine Nyomukunzi (21:40) and Britain’s Emily Grace Collinge (22:21).

From the opening metres on the rolling Coiluna course, Yavi took control. She quickly settled into a strong rhythm, forcing Nyomukunzi to chase. By the midpoint, Yavi had opened daylight on her rivals. She maintained her form through the final kilometre and powered across the finish line unchallenged.

The victory confirmed Yavi as the standout athlete in a field packed with experienced European and international competitors. At 26, she is ranked #2 in the world in the 3000m steeplechase. Her career highlights include Olympic gold in Paris 2024, a World Championship title, a Diamond League Final win, and a World Championships silver medal. Her latest success in Italy marks a strong start to the season and signals what’s ahead for Bahrain’s star sprinter.

Yavi’s performance in Sardinia also demonstrates her readiness for the months ahead. Yavi will next compete at the World Military Cross Country Championships in Trikala, Greece, starting February 25. Later in the year, she will focus on the Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan, in September.

The Cross di Alà dei Sardi is one of Italy’s most prestigious cross-country events, attracting elite runners from across Europe and beyond. Yavi’s win adds another high-profile chapter to the race’s history and highlights the Kingdom's rising influence on the global athletics stage.