On Sunday, 19 April 2026, the Paseo de la Castellana will turn into a sea of green shirts for the 13th edition of Madrid en Marcha Against Cancer. Organised by the Spanish Association Against Cancer (AECC) under the motto “Let’s take one more step”, this charity event brings together tens of thousands of runners and walkers with a shared goal: raising funds for cancer research and patient support programmes. The 2025 edition attracted more than 27,000 participants, and in 2026 organisers aim to exceed 32,000. If you’re looking for a meaningful challenge or a family-friendly running event, here’s everything you need to know.
History and purpose of the race
Madrid en Marcha Against Cancer was launched thirteen years ago by the AECC to raise awareness and fund cancer research and free support services. Its inclusive nature is one of its defining features: it combines competitive and non-competitive formats, welcomes families and allocates part of its revenue to research grants and psychological support. In just a few editions, it has become one of Spain’s largest charity races, turning the AECC’s green colour into a symbol of hope.
Date, routes and schedule
The 13th edition will take place on Sunday, 19 April 2026. The event offers two urban routes through central Madrid:
- 10 km race (start 09:00): a fast and demanding course starting on Paseo de la Castellana, passing through AZCA, Cibeles and Serrano, and finishing on Paseo de Recoletos near Plaza de Colón. Open to runners aged 14 and over, with a cut-off time of 80 minutes (40 minutes at 5 km).
- 4.5 km race/walk (start 11:00): designed for families, beginners and walkers. It follows an accessible 4.5 km loop with the same start and finish points and a 70-minute limit.
- Children’s races (from 12:00): non-competitive events in Plaza del Descubrimiento for children aged 4 to 12.
Both routes start on Paseo de la Castellana and finish on Paseo de Recoletos. The 4.5 km event allows walking, making it ideal for families.
How to register and entry fees
Registration is available exclusively on the official website and remains open until Saturday, 18 April, although places usually sell out in advance. Entries include a bib with timing chip, a technical T-shirt and a runner’s goodie bag. According to the official rules, fees are as follows:
- 10 km race: €15 until 28 February; €16 from 1 March to 15 April; €20 from 15 to 18 April (if available).
- 4.5 km race/walk: €15 for adults and €10 for under-14s until 28 February; €16 and €11 respectively from 1 March to 15 April; €20 for adults and €15 for children from 15 to 18 April.
- Charity packs: limited packs include a bib and special-edition sunglasses (Hawkers for adults at €39 and Northweek for children at €35).
- Donation bib: if you can’t attend, you can still support the cause by making a direct donation.
Logistics, bib collection and services
Bibs and chips must be collected from Thursday, 16 April to Saturday, 18 April, between 10:00 and 20:00 (location to be confirmed). A time slot booking is required, along with ID or registration confirmation. Collection by a third party is allowed with signed authorisation. The organisation also provides:
- Free bag drop in Plaza del Descubrimiento.
- Water stations along the 10 km route and at the finish for all participants.
- Trophies for the top five finishers in each category.
- Insurance coverage (civil liability and accident insurance).
- Warm-up sessions and entertainment with live music at the start area.
Training tips and preparation
If you’re planning to join the green tide, proper preparation is key:
- Plan ahead: allow at least 8 weeks for the 10 km and 4 weeks for the 4.5 km. Combine easy runs, quality sessions and strength work.
- Train on asphalt: adapt your body to urban surfaces and practise pace changes.
- Focus on hydration and nutrition: stay well hydrated, eat at least two hours before the race and consider gels or electrolytes for the 10 km.
- Prioritise recovery: sleep at least 7 hours per night and include mobility and stretching routines.
- Use technology: the SnapRace app helps you plan routes, track progress and stay motivated.
Why you shouldn’t miss Madrid en Marcha Against Cancer 2026
Taking part in this event goes beyond sport: every bib contributes directly to the fight against cancer. Your registration helps fund research, support services and prevention initiatives. You’ll also experience a vibrant day as Madrid turns green, filled with music, cheering crowds and shared emotion. Whether you’re chasing a personal best or enjoying a relaxed walk, this race has something for everyone.
So, what are you waiting for? Sign up, train consistently and, on 19 April, share your experience using the hashtag #MadridEnMarchaContraElCancer. Remember: every step counts.