Experience the Thrill of the Madrid Marathon
Recognized with the prestigious Gold Label by World Athletics, the Madrid Marathon stands out as one of the premier road racing events globally. It rivals famous marathons held in New York, London, and Berlin, highlighting its excellence in organization and execution. As a key part of the Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon Series, which is the largest running circuit in the world, the Madrid Marathon brings a vibrant atmosphere characterized by live rock bands along the course and a celebratory finish-line festival.
Additionally, the marathon features two significant events: a 10k race and a half marathon. These events collectively transform Madrid into a dazzling celebration of sport. Registration for the 2026 edition opens on May 8, promising another exciting opportunity for runners from around the world to partake in this exhilarating experience.
Record-Breaking Participation in 2025
The 2025 Madrid Marathon reached a historic milestone, welcoming an incredible 45,000 runners from 118 countries, demonstrating the event’s global appeal. Ethiopia’s Derara Hurisa clinched victory in the men’s marathon with a remarkable time of 2:09:11, while Maritu Ketema won the women’s race, finishing in 2:25:55. The 48th edition is scheduled for Sunday, April 26, 2026.
A Scenic Course Through Madrid
Runners will find the Madrid Marathon to have one of the most picturesque courses on the international calendar. The race kicks off on the iconic Paseo de la Castellana, near the Gregorio Marañón metro station. Throughout the journey, participants will run past some of Madrid’s most notable landmarks, including the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, the Cuatro Torres Business Area, the Puerta del Sol, and the majestic Royal Palace. The course also includes scenic views of Casa de Campo Park, Madrid Río Park, and ends at the historic Paseo de Recoletos, flanked by Plaza de Cibeles and Plaza de Colón.
Dynamic Entertainment and Enthusiastic Crowd
One of the unique features of the Madrid Marathon is the live rock bands that perform along the route. Almost twenty bands contribute to an electrifying atmosphere, adding energy to the runners as they navigate the course. The passionate Madrid crowd, well-known for its love of sports, further enhances the experience, ensuring that participants feel encouraged and supported throughout their journey.
The Challenge of the Course
Despite the course’s breathtaking scenery, it is essential to note that Madrid’s rolling terrain brings its challenges. The varied elevation adds to the race’s complexity, demanding both physical and mental resilience from the runners. However, these challenges only serve to enrich the experience, turning every mile into a memorable adventure.
Event Records and Highlights
The Madrid Marathon has seen remarkable performances over the years. Notably, Reuben Kerio from Kenya set the record for the men’s marathon in 2019 with an impressive time of 2:08:18. On the women’s side, the record is held by Ethiopia’s Dagne Siranesh Yirga, who completed the race in 2:24:37 in the 2022 edition.
As the event continues to grow in popularity, the Madrid Marathon promises to be an unforgettable experience for runners and spectators alike. With a rich history and a bright future, this marathon solidifies Madrid’s place in the world of elite athletics.
For those interested in participating, mark your calendars for May 8, when registration for the 2026 Madrid Marathon opens. This is a not-to-miss chance to take part in a world-class event, celebrated for its organization, community support, and inspiring atmosphere.
For more information on the upcoming events and how to register, visit the official event page: Madrid Marathon Official Site.
