On 31 December Madrid turns into a running festival. The Nationale‑Nederlanden San Silvestre Vallecana, one of the most emblematic races on the Spanish calendar, has launched its 2025 edition with several novelties and the usual charm. Registration started earlier than in previous years: runners from 2024 had priority access on 4 June and, after a one‑week head start, general registration opened to the public with 40,000 bibs available for the popular race. The organisation expects entries to sell out weeks before the official deadline of 23 December, reflecting the huge anticipation this race generates.
News and prices
For the 2025 edition the organisers are committed to an inclusive and sustainable model. The popular race, costing €29, features a staggered start from 16:50 to 18:20 and is open to anyone over 16 years old. The international race retains its exclusivity: only 2,000 athletes with certified 2025 times under 39 minutes (men) or 45 minutes (women) for 10 km will be admitted. Their bibs cost €25 and registration is open until 30 December.
A route to fall in love with
The 10‑kilometre course takes in some of Madrid’s most iconic sites. The starting line is on Calle Concha Espina next to Real Madrid’s stadium, and the peloton descends along Serrano before crossing the Puerta de Alcalá and passing Cibeles, Neptuno and the Prado Museum. The popular race will finish on Calle Candilejas in Vallecas, while the international race will end inside Rayo Vallecano’s stadium, as tradition dictates.
T‑shirts and “Golden Tickets”
One of this year’s highlights will be the official T‑shirt. Designer Alejandro Parrilla has created three distinct models using 100 % recycled materials, which will be allocated randomly to participants. Ten of these shirts will hide a “Golden Ticket” as a prize: lifetime entry for future editions. The aim, besides surprising runners, is to reinforce the community spirit and sustainability that defines the race.
The party is for families
The Vallecana doesn’t forget the youngest runners. On 20 December the Mini San Silvestre will take place at the Vallehermoso stadium, with more than 3,000 boys and girls running alongside their families. All proceeds will go to the Gasol Foundation in the fight against childhood obesity, and the A la Par Foundation will collaborate to encourage children with different abilities to take part.
More than a race
Sixty years after its first edition, the San Silvestre Vallecana is still a symbol of saying goodbye to the old year with trainers, fancy dress and smiles. At the presentation, founder Antonio Sabugueiro and Spanish record‑holder Tariku Novales highlighted the historic and emotional dimension of this event. With a fast course, thousands of runners and an unrivalled atmosphere, the Vallecana 2025 once again promises to be the best way to end the year running.