Running to the Beat of Rock: Madrid's Rock 'n' Roll Marathon Series

Rock Arrives in Europe

Let's rock, Everybody, let's rock 🎸

Like the rock king Elvis Presley 👑, the Rock ’n’ Roll Running Series originated in the United States 🇺🇸. In 1998, in San Diego, a simple concept emerged: to transform the run into an XXL party, driven by live concerts all along the route 🎶. Since then, the label has expanded to more than 30 cities around the globe 🌍. And it was Madrid that opened the way outside American borders. In 2012, the Madrid marathon (which has existed since 1978) became the first international Rock ’n’ Roll Marathon 👏. This shift brought even more celebrations... and runners from all over the world. Result: a true popular festivity where 47,000 runners from over 110 countries gather to run through the streets of this capital in Jailhouse Rock 🤘 mode. Today, you can find this rock & running spirit in Las Vegas, Nashville, Seattle or even Lisbon. But Madrid holds a special place: here, you run through one of the liveliest capitals in Europe 🕺. On the 10 km, 7 entertainment stages set the pavement on fire 🔥. On the half-marathon, 10 concerts keep up the pace. And for those who take on the marathon challenge, no fewer than 20 music points await to turn each refreshment into a mini-festival 🎉.

Credit: Madrid Rock 'n' Roll Marathon Series.

A Unique Route 📍

Besides the atmosphere, it's the route that will leave its mark on you 😮. Whether you choose the 10 km, the half, or the marathon, each stride is an invitation to rediscover Madrid from a different angle 🔍. You will proceed along its most beautiful monuments and avenues 😍. From the starting signal on the Paseo de la Castellana, just a stone's throw from the Natural History Museum 🦣, the adventure begins: you cross the financial district, skirt the majestic Cibeles Palace, and pass by the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium 🏟️, the Prado Museum, Atocha, Queen Sofia, Neptune, Puerta del Sol, Plaza de la Villa, the Congress of Deputies, Almudena Cathedral, the Royal Palace, Plaza de España, up to the iconic Temple of Debod 🏛️. Beyond the frenetic pace set by rock on your legs, it's the elevation gain that will make you catch your breath 💨. The course features some 390 mD+ for the marathon... 📈 Now you're warned! 😇

In the end, the Rock ‘n’ Roll Running Series Madrid is more than a race: it's an invitation to visit Madrid differently 👀. And frankly, it's not every day you get to pace your strides to electric guitars, is it? ⚡️