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
Major marathon
Crowd Rating
Spectator Support
Excellent spectator turnout
Record-Breaking 2025 Edition Welcomes 45,000 Runners from 118 Countries
Apr 27, 2025The 2025 Rock 'n' Roll Madrid Marathon achieved a historic milestone with 45,000 participants from 118 countries across three race distances, with Ethiopia's Derara Hurisa and Maritu Ketema claiming marathon victories.
2026 Registration Opens May 8th for 48th Edition
May 8, 2025Registration for the 48th edition of the Zurich Rock 'n' Roll Running Series Madrid opens on May 8, 2025, with the race scheduled for April 26, 2026, expecting over 47,000 runners.
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
Official Hotel Partner PortalVerified
This race offers exclusive rates and guaranteed entry packages through their official travel partner. Booking through the portal is recommended.
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
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
Full refund minus processing fee until 90 days before race
50% refund until 60 days before race
No refund within 60 days of race date
Bib transfer allowed until 30 days before race for €15 fee
Deferral to next year available until 60 days before race for €25 fee
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.
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.
