Rock 'n' Roll Madrid Marathon
The Lowdown
The Rock 'n' Roll Madrid Marathon combines the vibrant energy of Spain's capital with the signature entertainment experience of the Rock 'n' Roll Marathon Series. Runners traverse a spectacular course through Madrid's most iconic landmarks, including the Royal Palace, Plaza Mayor, Retiro Park, and the famous Gran Vía, all while being energized by live music stages positioned throughout the route. The flat, fast course winds through tree-lined boulevards and historic neighborhoods, offering participants an immersive cultural experience alongside their athletic achievement. This AIMS-certified marathon attracts thousands of runners from across Europe and beyond, drawn by the combination of a Boston Marathon qualifying-eligible course and the festive Spanish atmosphere. The race features the series' trademark live bands and DJs at every mile, creating an electric ambiance that keeps runners motivated from start to finish. With a generous time limit and excellent crowd support, the event welcomes both competitive athletes seeking personal records and recreational runners looking to experience Madrid in a unique way. Post-race celebrations include a finish line festival with live entertainment, Spanish cuisine, and the iconic Rock 'n' Roll finisher medal and concert. The spring timing offers ideal running conditions with mild temperatures, making it one of Europe's most appealing destination marathons for international participants seeking to combine athletic goals with cultural exploration in one of the continent's most dynamic cities.
Race Day
Weather Forecast
Elevation
Terrain Profile
Relatively flat course
Participants
Field Size
World-class event
Crowd Rating
Spectator Support
Excellent spectator turnout
2027 Edition Launches New Registration Model; 10K Eliminated
May 4, 2026The organization announced a new phased registration model for the 2027 edition (April 25, 2027) following over 8,000 runners left without bibs in 2026. Three phases: Loyalty (May 6–10, 2026 for 2026 participants), Preferred (May 11–13, 2026 for waitlist members), General (from May 14, 2026). 47,000 total bibs (17,000 marathon, 30,000 half marathon). The 10K distance is eliminated for 2027 to concentrate resources on the two main distances.
2026 Edition Completed; 2027 General Registration Open
Jun 24, 2026The 2026 Zurich Rock 'n' Roll Madrid Marathon (April 26, 2026) has been completed. General registration for the 2027 edition (April 25, 2027) is open as of May 14, 2026. Over 18,500 runners registered in the first five days of the loyalty phase.
Boston Qualifier
This race is a certified Boston Marathon qualifying event. Achieve your qualifying standard here on a verified course.
Puerta de Alcalá
Iconic neoclassical monument and one of Madrid's most recognizable symbols
Parque del Retiro
Spain's most famous urban park with beautiful gardens and monuments
Plaza de Cibeles
Stunning baroque fountain and palace, home to Madrid's city hall
Paseo del Prado
Tree-lined boulevard featuring world-class museums including the Prado Museum
Plaza Mayor
Historic 17th-century square in the heart of Madrid's old town
Royal Palace of Madrid
Europe's largest royal palace with stunning architecture
Gran Vía
Madrid's most famous shopping street known as the Spanish Broadway
Santiago Bernabéu Stadium
Home of Real Madrid football club
Other distances available during the event weekend:
Madrid, Spain
ES
Average rate for 3-star accommodations near the start line
Eligibility
- Participants must be 18 years or older on race day
- Medical certificate required for Spanish residents
- Participants must be in good physical condition suitable for marathon distance
- Registration and payment must be completed before race day
- Acceptance of race rules and regulations required
- Valid identification document required for bib collection
- Mandatory RFEA day license (€4) required unless already an RFEA member
Required Documents
- Photo ID or Passport
- Medical Certificate (Certificado Médico)
- Proof of Age
- Race Registration Confirmation
- Emergency Contact Information
- Signed Liability Waiver
Entry Methods
- Online Registration
- Tour Operator
- Charity Entry
- Travel Package
Cancellation & Refund Policy
75% refund with medical documentation submitted before March 31, 2027
No transfer to future editions
Bib transfer between persons not mentioned in new model
The course winds through Madrid's most iconic landmarks including the Royal Palace, Retiro Park, and Plaza Mayor.
Live music bands are positioned at multiple points along the course, staying true to the Rock 'n' Roll Marathon Series tradition.
Finishers receive a unique Rock 'n' Roll Madrid medal and technical finisher shirt.
The race weekend includes a Health & Fitness Expo at IFEMA featuring running gear, nutrition products, and expert speakers.
Post-race festivities include a Finish Line Festival with live entertainment, beer garden, and traditional Spanish tapas for all participants.
The 10K distance has been eliminated for the 2027 edition; only Marathon (42K) and Half Marathon (21K) are offered.
Community
Stories, tips, and race-day snapshots from runners who have tackled this course.
Community Reviews
Learn from fellow runners and share insights that will help the next person toe the line.

