Rock 'n' Roll Madrid Marathon

Location: Madrid
Country: Spain
Website: https://rocknrollmadridrun.com/?lang=en
2025 Marathon Date: 27/04/2025
2026 Marathon Date: 26/04/2026
Winning Time 2025: 02:09:11
% Sub-3s: 2–5%
# Sub-3s: 100–499
Total Runners: 10k–20k

The Rock 'n' Roll Madrid Marathon is held each spring in Spain’s capital city, offering a high-energy race experience that blends challenging terrain with musical entertainment and large crowds. As part of the global Rock 'n' Roll series, the event combines urban spectacle with professional race management, drawing a large domestic and international field each year.

The course begins in the city centre and takes runners on a rolling loop through Madrid’s iconic neighbourhoods, including Salamanca, Retiro, Chamberí and Moncloa. The route is known for its undulating profile, with frequent climbs and descents that test endurance and pacing discipline. While there are fast sections – particularly in the later stages – the opening half includes sustained uphill stretches that can significantly affect overall strategy.

Late April weather in Madrid is generally warm, with race-day temperatures often starting around 10–13°C and rising steadily as the morning progresses. While the air is typically dry and skies are clear, runners must prepare for the possibility of heat during the final 10K. The early start and frequent aid stations help mitigate the impact of rising temperatures.

The event is well-organised, with clear signage, reliable hydration points and an efficient starting procedure. The musical acts and cheering zones along the course create a lively and upbeat atmosphere, with particularly strong crowd support around the major plazas and final stretch. Despite the course difficulty, the celebratory energy makes the experience highly memorable.

For sub-3 marathoners, Madrid poses a tougher challenge than flatter European races. Success here depends on strategic pacing, strong hill fitness and heat management. Runners with experience on rolling terrain and those comfortable racing in slightly warmer conditions will find the course rewarding, though not forgiving.

While not designed for pure speed, the Rock 'n' Roll Madrid Marathon delivers a well-executed, high-impact race day. Its blend of city spectacle and course difficulty makes it ideal for sub-3 athletes seeking a more demanding but celebratory marathon experience in a major European capital.