Pakistan’s Top Marathon Runner Faisal Shafi to Run Chicago Marathon for Flood Relief Cause

Pakistan’s renowned marathon runner Faisal Shafi, who has represented the country on some of the world’s biggest marathon stages, is set to participate in the Chicago Marathon this year with a purpose beyond personal triumph. The 43-year-old athlete will dedicate his run to raising funds for flood-affected families in Pakistan, turning his athletic pursuit into a humanitarian mission.

A symbol of endurance and compassion, Faisal Shafi aims to raise PKR 5 million through donations and private sponsorships. The funds collected from this initiative will be distributed among families still recovering from the devastating floods that hit Pakistan through the United Nations relief program.

“This year in Chicago, I will be running for a cause,” Shafi shared before leaving for the United States. “Marathons are not just about personal records or medals. They can be powerful tools for raising awareness and making a difference. Our people are still struggling to rebuild their lives after the floods, and we all have a duty to support them.”

Shafi added that all contributions will be managed transparently, ensuring accountability and trust throughout the process. His commitment to both sportsmanship and social responsibility continues to inspire athletes and citizens across Pakistan.

The Chicago Marathon, part of the World Marathon Majors, is one of the most prestigious long-distance races globally, attracting elite runners and participants from over 100 countries. For Shafi, it represents both a professional challenge and a personal opportunity to make a tangible impact.

Notably, Faisal Shafi recently completed the Sydney Marathon, where he became one of the few Pakistani runners to earn the ‘Seven Star’ Marathon title, a distinction awarded to athletes who have completed all seven major international marathons. During the same event, he set a Guinness World Record for the fastest marathon completed in a combat uniform — a symbolic tribute to resilience and endurance.

Through his participation in the Chicago Marathon, Faisal Shafi not only highlights Pakistan’s growing presence in global sports but also emphasizes how athletics can serve as a powerful platform for humanitarian causes. His initiative reinforces the message that true greatness in sports lies not only in breaking records but also in using influence to uplift others.

With this run, Shafi continues to prove that perseverance and purpose can coexist — that every stride on the marathon track can echo hope for those in need.