Victory Team driver Fahim returns for third consecutive Dubai T100 Triathlon

 Victory Team powerboat driver Ahmad Al Fahim will line up for his third Dubai T100 Triathlon on Sunday 15 November, taking on the full 100km for the second year running: the same 2km swim, 80km bike and 18km run as the world’s best professionals.

Al Fahim joined the Dubai-based Victory Team in 2018, winning races in the F4 class before making his F1H2O World Championship debut in 2023. He took up triathlon in 2015, qualified for the IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship two years later and represented the UAE at the 2018 Asian Games. Away from racing, he is Head of Strategy and Talent Development at Dubai Sports Council.

Al Fahim said: “I’m really excited to take part in Dubai T100 for the third time, especially as the race is held here in Dubai and gives us the opportunity to compete alongside athletes from around the world.

“For me, taking part is not just about achieving a result. It is about continuing to challenge myself and improve my performance. Most importantly, it is an opportunity to represent the UAE with pride at a major international sporting event.”

Al Fahim has had time out of the sport through injury. A fractured hip in 2020 stopped him running, and when he returned to training, a broken shoulder stopped him from swimming.

“In between, I became focused on cycling and did a lot of road racing, but then I slowed down because the potential of crashing is high,” he said. “I’m racing for Victory in Formula One and there is no room for mistakes, so I can’t risk it. I went back to triathlon because it’s safer when it comes to racing. I started slowly and now I’m picking it up more. This is my third year back.” 

Al Fahim raced the Sprint at the first Dubai T100 in 2024 before stepping up to the 100km last year.

During the week, Al Fahim alternates between swimming, cycling and running for one to two hours a day, with longer endurance sessions of three to four hours at weekends.

“Sport is no longer just a hobby or something I do to compete in championships. It has become a way of life that I cannot imagine being without,” he said.

“I always try to manage my time between work and my sporting commitments, making sure I practise at least one of the three disciplines almost every day, whether swimming, running or cycling. The length of each session may vary depending on my schedule, but what matters most is consistency and never giving up.”

Victory Team won the F1H2O Teams’ World Championship for the first time in 2025 and top this year’s standings going into the final round in Sharjah on 18–20 December.

“There is a strong connection between the two sports in terms of physical and mental preparation,” said Al Fahim. “Formula 1 powerboat racing requires intense concentration and the ability to withstand significant physical demands throughout a race. Triathlon training helps me maintain my fitness and endurance, which has a positive impact on my performance with the Victory Team. I believe the two sports complement each other.”

Race weekend falls within the 10th Dubai Fitness Challenge, the citywide 30x30 initiative running from 31 October to 29 November.

“The message I always want to share is that sport is for everyone. Work commitments and everyday responsibilities should never become barriers to staying active,” said Al Fahim.

“I have my government job and my commitments with the Victory Team, yet I still make sure to set aside time for regular training. Not everyone needs to compete in long-distance races, but what matters is finding an activity that suits them, getting started and making movement and exercise part of their daily routine.”