The 31st edition of the Seville Half Marathon took place on 25 January 2026 amid festive scenes and record‑breaking numbers. Known for its flat, wind‑protected course, the Andalusian race welcomed 20,000 runners — more than 6,000 of them women and nearly 3,000 visitors from abroad representing 90 nationalities. The morning began with an emotional minute of silence for the victims of the Adamuz train accident, and the event unfolded under mild temperatures that made the asphalt feel fast. In this article we review the results, records and training tips that will help you enjoy this race or any speedy half marathon, with the help of SnapRace when it makes sense.
Record participation and a unique atmosphere
The 2026 Seville Half Marathon became the largest ever held in the city. According to organisers, 20,000 runners registered, nearly double the participation five years ago. More than 3,000 athletes came from abroad and 32 % of the field were women (over 6,000), underlining the international and inclusive character of the race. The route, virtually flat with just five metres of elevation gain, wound through landmarks such as Paseo de las Delicias, Plaza Nueva, Triana and Puerta de Jerez, creating a spectacle for athletes and spectators alike.
- 20,000 runners at the start — an all‑time participation record.
- 3,000 international runners representing up to 90 nations.
- 6,000 women in the race, making up 32 % of the total field.
- A flat, fast course with only five metres of accumulated elevation.
- A festive atmosphere with street entertainment and volunteers on every corner.
City officials emphasised that Seville’s route — one of the flattest in Europe (article in Spanish) — encourages fast times and is ideal for beginners in the distance. Conditions were so favourable that, beyond the elite performances, thousands of recreational runners achieved personal bests.
Highlights and records from the 2026 Seville Half Marathon
Women’s race: Worku smashes the record
The star of the day was Ethiopian runner Zeineba Yimer Worku, who dominated from start to finish. She stopped the clock at 1:06:33, a new course record and the fifth‑fastest half marathon time recorded worldwide this year. Worku lowered the previous course mark by almost 45 seconds and crossed the line on her own. Behind her, Kenya’s Winnie Jepkosgei set a personal best with 1:07:45 and Ethiopia’s Aminet Ahmed Abde completed the podium in 1:09:11.
- 1. Zeineba Yimer Worku – 1:06:33 (course record and fifth fastest time of the year).
- 2. Winnie Jepkosgei – 1:07:45 (personal best).
- 3. Aminet Ahmed Abde – 1:09:11.
- 4. Niyonsaba Nadia – 1:09:32 (approximate fourth place).
- 5. Marta Galimany – 1:09:57 (first Spanish finisher and personal best).
Catalan athlete Marta Galimany, fifth overall, became the top Spaniard with 1:09:57, underscoring the strong form of Spanish middle‑distance runners. According to sports reports from Mundo Deportivo (article in Spanish), Worku’s performance in Seville was a masterclass of strength and pacing.
Men’s race: Roudolff wins a nail‑biting sprint
The men’s race was decided in a thrilling sprint finish. France’s Emmanuel Roudolff, his nation’s half‑marathon champion, claimed victory in 1:00:24, just one second ahead of Kenyan debutant Owen Korir Kapkama (1:00:25). Kenya’s Jonathan Kipkoech Kamosong rounded out the podium in 1:00:33. Spaniard Roberto Alaiz was the fastest national runner, finishing ninth overall in 1:03:55.
- 1. Emmanuel Roudolff – 1:00:24.
- 2. Owen Korir Kapkama – 1:00:25.
- 3. Jonathan Kipkoech Kamosong – 1:00:33.
- 4. Abdellatif Fekir – 1:00:45 (estimated fourth place).
- 5. Roberto Alaiz – 1:03:55 (first Spanish runner).
The blistering splits and dramatic finish showcase the calibre of the Seville event. Several runners set personal bests, proving that this course is a true expressway for both elites and amateurs.
Wheelchair division and Spanish participation
In the wheelchair race, Seville native Guzmán Martín Jiménez took the win in 1:20:16, reflecting the growing standard of this discipline. His victory added a hometown touch to the celebration and showed that Seville is also a benchmark for adaptive sport.
Among the Spanish athletes, in addition to Marta Galimany and Roberto Alaiz, notable performances came from Alicia Berzosa (1:10:50) and Lidia Campo (1:12:06), who finished among the top ten Spanish women. Their results confirm the strength of Spain’s middle‑distance scene.
Why Seville is a course built for speed
Why do thousands of runners travel to Seville each year to chase personal bests? The answer lies in the combination of course design, climate and atmosphere. The route runs along wide avenues with no significant climbs; the city sits almost at sea level; and January temperatures range between 8 and 15 °C. Add in impeccable organisation and the enthusiasm of the locals and you have an ideal setting for fast running.
- Flat course. With just five metres of elevation gain, it is one of the flattest half marathons in Europe.
- Mild weather. January offers gentle temperatures and little wind, perfect for maintaining a steady pace.
- Near sea‑level altitude. Seville is almost at sea level, aiding oxygen uptake and reducing cardiovascular strain.
- Support and logistics. More than 1,000 volunteers, aid stations every 5 km and bands along the course keep runners energised.
- History and culture. The route passes landmarks such as the Torre del Oro, Plaza de España and the Triana neighbourhood, making the race a high‑speed sightseeing tour.
If you’re interested in tackling the full 42 km, the official Seville Marathon website offers information on registration and logistics that can also be applied to half‑marathon preparation.
Tips for preparing the Seville Half Marathon – or any fast half marathon
Success over 21 km requires as much mental preparation as physical. Here are some ideas to make the most of Seville’s course or any fast half marathon:
- Plan your training well in advance. A 10–12‑week programme combining easy runs, long outings and threshold sessions will help you toe the line in top shape.
- Train your threshold speed. Incorporate repetitions of 2–3 km at race pace with short recoveries to improve your resistance to fatigue.
- Strengthen your muscles and core. Exercises like squats, lunges and stability work increase running efficiency and prevent injury.
- Practise nutrition and hydration. Rehearse gel and isotonic drink intake during your long runs so there are no surprises on race day.
- Work on your mind. Techniques such as mindfulness running help you manage effort and stay focused when it counts.
- Use smart tools. The SnapRace app lets you design personalised plans, monitor your pace in real time and analyse your running technique via video. You can also join virtual challenges and share your progress with other runners.
Remember to reduce your training volume during the two weeks leading up to the race and get adequate rest. A well‑planned taper will leave you feeling fresh and with full energy stores on the start line.
Final thoughts
The 2026 Seville Half Marathon confirmed its status as one of the fastest and most attractive half marathons on the Spanish calendar. The party in the streets, the records set by Zeineba Yimer Worku and Emmanuel Roudolff, and the participation record point to a bright future for the event. If you’re thinking of running in Seville or any other half marathon, start planning your season now and let SnapRace be your training ally. With consistency, solid preparation and the right motivation, your next personal best is closer than you think.