Star-studded Göteborgsvarvet – Suldan Hassan runs in front of a home crowd
When Göteborgsvarvet takes place on May 17, it won’t just be tens of thousands of recreational runners filling the streets – the Nordic running elite will also be ready to showcase their talent. One of the most talked-about names in the lineup is Suldan Hassan – a Gothenburg native and one of Sweden’s top long-distance runners.
Getting to run Göteborgsvarvet in front of a home crowd means the world to me. I’ve done the race several times before and I know the kind of energy the spectators bring here. It always adds something extra,” says Suldan.
But he won’t have an easy path to victory. The men’s elite field includes several experienced names. Norway’s Sondre Nordstad Moen – a former European record holder in the half marathon with a time of 59:48 – also has an impressive marathon PB of 2:05 and is always a tough competitor when in shape. Fellow Norwegian Zerei Kbrom Mezngi is also a top contender, with a 60:01 half marathon and a 2:07 marathon to his name.
From the Swedish side, Samuel Tsegay will be one to watch. At his best, he’s world-class – with a 59:21 from the World Half Marathon Championships in Copenhagen 2014, he brings experience and speed.
On the women’s side, Norway’s Karoline Bjerkeli Grøvdal is the standout name. A multiple European Championship medalist, she holds national records in both the 5,000 and 10,000 meters. This year’s Göteborgsvarvet marks her debut at the half marathon distance – a race she has described as both exciting and challenging.
“I’ve heard so many great things about Göteborgsvarvet – the course, the crowd, the atmosphere. I can’t wait to experience it for myself,” says Karoline.
Two strong Swedish runners are also among the top women: Samrawit Mengsteab, who recently ran an impressive marathon debut in Hamburg at 2:28:44, and Hanna Lindholm, a seasoned national team athlete with a Swedish marathon title in 2022 and a wealth of experience from major races.
With so many elite names on the start list, this year’s race is shaping up to be a thrilling, fast-paced showdown – once again proving Göteborgsvarvet’s status as one of the most prestigious and beloved races in Europe.
And for the spectators, all eyes will surely be on Suldan Hassan – the local hope, running with form, speed, and the full support of a home crowd.
“It’s going to be incredibly exciting to compete against some of the best runners in the Nordics on such a fantastic stage as Göteborgsvarvet. I’m really looking forward to the race and hope to be in the fight for the win. I believe the energy from the city and the home crowd can carry me along the course,” says Suldan.
2025-05-16