Huawei launched its most advanced elite running watch in Madrid yesterday, the GT Runner 2, marking a major leap forward for the brand in professional performance wearable technology. Developed in close partnership with two-time Olympic marathon champion Eliud Kipchoge, the watch is the result of five years of intensive research and development, rigorous competitive testing, and direct collaboration with world-class athletes.

The GT Runner 2 delivers next-generation accuracy across heart-rate zones, lactate threshold tracking and GPS performance, even in the most demanding terrain. Powered by Huawei’s proprietary TruSense and Sunflower positioning technologies, it is purpose-built to meet the demands of professional runners.

…we can reach millions of runners around the world and hopefully impact their lives…

Kipchoge was officially introduced as the global ambassador for the GT Runner. “Running means much more than running fast,” said Kipchoge. “I believe that running is the most beautiful activity on every level. Together with Huawei, we can reach millions of runners around the world and hopefully impact their lives in a beautiful and positive way.”

Even before its official debut, the watch had already proven itself on the international stage. Earlier in February, elite athletes from the dsm-firmenich Running Team were spotted racing with unreleased prototypes at the Burj2Burj Half Marathon in Dubai – a powerful endorsement of its performance credentials.

Equipped with a new 3D floating antenna architecture, the watch is engineered to deliver exceptional positioning accuracy. Powered by an intelligent positioning algorithm, it continues to calculate the trajectory and distance, even during temporary signal interruptions, helping runners maintain precise data in complex environments.

The new intelligent marathon mode offers comprehensive race management, acting like a personal coach on the wrist. Designed to support professional athletes in optimising performance, it also makes advanced running insights accessible to everyday runners seeking a smarter training experience.

Real-world training and race data, including heart-rate dynamics, lactate threshold shifts and high-altitude performance, were fed directly into Huawei’s advanced algorithms. This close athlete collaboration ensures every feature is finely tuned for precision, delivering stable route tracking and pace accuracy in even the most complex environments, where reliability is mission-critical.

Backed by long-term testing with over 100 runners and enhanced by machine-learning models for fatigue assessment and scientifically guided training insights, Huawei’s latest innovation sets a new benchmark in elite sports technology.

At the event, Kipchoge shared his experience of collaborating with Huawei on product development. “I am passionate about sharing my opinions and perspectives to improve the smartwatch experience, not just for elite athletes but for runners all around the world,” he said.

The watches will be available in South Africa in early April.  Prices to be confirmed.

READ MORE ON: gps watches for runners Huawei performance wearable technology running watches