Eritrea

Eritrea boasts a rich and storied sporting heritage, having produced some of the world’s most exceptional athletes.

Among these inspirations is Zersenay Tadese, a world record holder in the half marathon, and Merhawi Kudus, who achieved the historic distinction of being the first Eritrean to triumph in a stage of the Tour de France. The nation also takes pride in Daniel Teklehaimanot, the first African cyclist to wear the polka dot jersey in the Tour de France, and Natnael Berhane, who marked Eritrea’s presence by clinching a stage in the Vuelta a España.

Eritrea’s sporting excellence extends to team sports, with the national football team securing the CECAFA Cup twice, in 2009 and 2011, and the national basketball team claiming victory in the FIBA Africa Zone 5 Championship four times, in 2009, 2011, 2013, and 2015. The nation has further showcased its prowess in diverse sports disciplines, producing luminaries such as long-distance runner Meb Keflezighi, who clinched the silver medal in the 2004 Olympic marathon, swimmer Robel Kiros Habte, who proudly secured the bronze medal in the 200m freestyle at the 2012 African Swimming Championships, and cyclist Biniam Girmay, who continues to make waves on the international stage.

These national heroes have left an indelible mark in their respective sports, serving as inspirations to a generation of Eritreans pursuing their athletic dreams.