The Zurich Rock ‘n’ Roll Running Series Madrid Marathon, part of the renowned Rock 'n' Roll Marathon Series, has been awarded the Gold Label by World Athletics, placing it among prestigious global races like those in New York, London, and Berlin. This distinction highlights the event's excellence in road racing, attracting participants from around the world.


In 2025, the Madrid Marathon achieved a milestone with 45,000 runners from 118 countries participating in its three races, including a marathon, a half marathon, and a 10k event. The marathon winners were Derara Hurisa from Ethiopia finishing in 2:09:11 and Maritu Ketema in 2:25:55. The upcoming 48th edition is set for April 26, 2026.


The marathon course is renowned for its scenic route, beginning at the iconic Paseo de la Castellana near the Gregorio Marañón metro station. Runners pass by notable landmarks such as the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, the Cuatro Torres Business Area, Puerta del Sol, the Royal Palace, Casa de Campo Park, Madrid Río Park, and the Prado Museum before reaching the finish line on Paseo de Recoletos.


With nearly twenty live rock bands lining the course, runners are energized by the music while being cheered on by the enthusiastic crowd known for its love of sports. Despite the challenging terrain with rolling hills, participants find the race to be a memorable and rewarding experience.


The event's record times stand at 2:08:18 for the men's marathon, set by Reuben Kerio in 2019, and 2:24:37 for the women's marathon, achieved by Dagne Siranesh Yirga in 2022. These records showcase the caliber of athletes that the Zurich Rock ‘n’ Roll Running Series Madrid Marathon attracts.


For those planning to participate in the 2026 edition, the marathon kicks off at 8:45 am, with the first wave commencing at that time. The finish line closes at 4:35 pm, providing runners with ample time to complete the challenging yet exhilarating race through the streets of Madrid.


The Zurich Rock ‘n’ Roll Running Series Madrid Marathon not only promotes physical activity but also showcases the city's vibrant culture and landmarks, making it a must-visit event for both seasoned and amateur runners. As the marathon continues to grow in popularity and prestige, it solidifies its status as a prominent fixture in the global running community.

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