In Madrid there are races for every taste, but few have the charm, tradition and toughness of the Fuencarral-El Pardo Half Marathon 2026. This event, celebrating its 41st edition on 15 February 2026, is the first stage of the Madrid Neighbourhood Race Circuit and one of Spain’s longest-running half marathons. Its leg-breaking course, local community participation and neighbourhood atmosphere have made it a must for runners looking for a challenge different from the typical flat circuit.
History and tradition of the Fuencarral-El Pardo Half Marathon
Born in 1985 thanks to the Valverde de Fuencarral Neighbours’ Association and the Fuencarral-El Pardo district, this half marathon has remained faithful to its popular spirit. Since the first edition it surpassed a thousand entrants and it currently attracts around 2 000 people, with sustained growth in female participation (approximately 20%). The race is part of the Madrid Neighbourhood Race Circuit and is overseen by judges from the Madrid Athletics Federation. Over four decades it has welcomed runners from across the region and from other areas who are looking for a demanding race with the flavour of a local neighbourhood festival.
The organisation takes care of every detail: certified timing, local entertainment and the award of a commemorative medal to everyone who crosses the finish line. In addition, the design of the official shirt, made from recycled fabric and with long sleeves, is presented each year as a small event. In 2026 a blue colour with high-quality printing has been chosen, and the garment is optional when registering, at an additional cost of 7 euros.
Date, bibs and categories
The 41st edition will take place on Sunday 15 February 2026 with a 10:00 a.m. start on Nuestra Señora de Valverde Street. At 10:30 a.m. there will be non-competitive children’s races. The maximum number of bibs is 3 000 and anyone born in 2010 or earlier can take part. The race has several categories (junior, overall, veteran A and B and local) and also races for children and people with disabilities.
- Registration: available online until 9 February on the official website. The price is €17 until 15 January and €20 from 16 January. Adding the technical shirt costs an extra €7.
- Bib and shirt collection: Friday 13 (10:30–20:00) and Saturday 14 February (11:00–18:00). Collecting your bib on race day has a €4 surcharge.
- Included services: chip bib, accident insurance, three liquid refreshment points along the course, full refreshments at the finish and a medal for all finishers.
- Time limit: the race will close after 2 h 45 min, so the finish line will close at 12:45 p.m.
During the registration process there is a combined rate with the Movistar Madrid Half Marathon that offers a €3 discount, valid until 2 February. Those who prefer to support the neighbourhood race can register in person at Agrupación Deportiva Marathon (Villaamil Street 65, Madrid) until registration closes.
Course and profile: from the neighbourhood to El Pardo and back
This half marathon is characterised by its leg-breaking course. The start and finish are on Nuestra Señora de Valverde Street. From there it heads towards the Montecarmelo neighbourhood and descends to El Pardo. The return runs along the road from El Pardo to Madrid and culminates with the famous climb up Avenida del Cardenal Herrera Oria, before returning to the start street. In total there are around 230 metres of positive elevation gain (equivalent to climbing 76 floors) and around 400 metres of accumulated elevation, so the difficulty is medium-to-high.
To help you plan your strategy better, the organisation has set up three refreshment points at kilometres 5, 10 and 15. Take advantage of the early descents to run in control and save energy for the decisive stretch between kilometres 15 and 18, where the Herrera Oria climb will test your legs. The course is completely closed to traffic and signposted, with police support and volunteers.
- Official itinerary: start on Nuestra Señora de Valverde Street → Isla Formosa → Afueras a Valverde → Montecarmelo Avenue → Monasterio de El Escorial Avenue → El Pardo Road → Cardenal Herrera Oria Avenue → finish on Nuestra Señora de Valverde.
- How to get there: the nearest metro station is Fuencarral (line 10) and bus lines 66, 124 and 137 run close to the start.
- Refreshments: water and isotonic drinks at km 5, 10 and 15; full refreshments at the finish.
Tips for training and tackling the hills
The combination of descents and long climbs means this half marathon is not suitable for improvisation. Here are some key tips for successful training:
- Work on strength and stability: include two or three weekly gym sessions or bodyweight exercises to strengthen legs, glutes and core. Movements such as squats, lunges, deadlifts and planks improve your running economy and reduce injury risk. In our strength training guide for runners you will find routines and the scientific evidence that supports them.
- Include hill training: do uphill repeats of 200 to 400 m to improve your power and technique. You can also do runs with elevation profiles similar to Fuencarral-El Pardo’s course to get your body used to pace changes.
- Manage your pace: don’t start too fast. Take advantage of the early descents to settle into rhythm without forcing and save your strength for the final climb. Many runners recommend saving energy until km 15, the point where the toughest ascent begins.
- Watch out for the cold: as it is held in February, temperatures are often low. Train with thermal clothing and use light layers that you can remove during the race. The official long-sleeved shirt is a good option.
- Use technology to your advantage: apps like SnapRace let you record your training, plan hill-specific sessions and analyse your progress. In addition, you can compete with friends and share your routes.
A neighbourhood race within a circuit
The Fuencarral-El Pardo Half Marathon opens the 6th Madrid Neighbourhood Race Circuit 2026, a calendar of fourteen popular races that run through different districts of the capital. Taking part in the circuit lets you score points across different distances and discover the diversity of neighbourhood races. After Fuencarral come events such as the Latina Half Marathon (22 February) or the Pau de Vallecas Popular Race (19 April). Check the full calendar on the Unión de Carreras de Barrio de Madrid website and plan your next challenges.
Logistics: practical tips for race day
- Transport: use public transport to avoid traffic jams. The metro (line 10) drops you a few minutes from the start and several bus lines are available. If you go by car, arrive early to find parking in the adjacent streets.
- Bib collection: collect your bib in advance to avoid queues. Remember to bring your ID or proof of registration and, if you bought the shirt, check that you have the correct size.
- Warm-up: arrive at least one hour early to warm up properly. Do mobility exercises and some strides to prepare your muscles and joints.
- Nutrition: eat breakfast early and avoid trying anything new on race day. Bring an isotonic drink or gel if you are used to using them.
- Bring your supporters: invite friends and family to cheer you on during the Herrera Oria climb and at the finish; the public’s support makes the effort more manageable.
This race is more than a sporting event: it is a neighbourhood festival and a tribute to the history of popular athletics in Madrid. If you are looking for a challenge that takes you out of your comfort zone, Fuencarral-El Pardo is your February date. Sign up, enjoy the scenery and share your experience in the SnapRace app so other runners can learn about your achievement. See you on the starting line!