Laredo 10K 2026 is more than just another road race: it has become a laboratory of records where some of the world’s best distance runners and thousands of amateur athletes gather each spring. In 2024 Ethiopians Yomif Kejelcha and Joshua Cheptegei staged a historic duel, with Kejelcha stopping the clock at 26:37 – one of the fastest 10 km performances ever. A year later, Germany’s Konstanze Klosterhalfen lowered her national record to 30:46 and Spain’s Carla Gallardo set a Spanish 10 km record of 31:11. These examples show why the Cantabrian event is considered Spain’s fastest 10K.
History and reputation of the race
The race was born more than two decades ago thanks to the Amigos del Deporte association with a clear goal: to offer an officially certified, almost flat circuit where amateurs and elites could fly. Over time, the official organisers secured World Athletics certification, attracting athletes from Kenya, Ethiopia, Germany, the United Kingdom and France. Since then, memorable performances have followed:
- In 2023 Ethiopia’s Berihu Aregawi set the second-fastest 10 km road time ever with 26:33, proving the potential of the circuit.
- In 2024 Yomif Kejelcha won in 26:37, ahead of Joshua Cheptegei (26:53), in a race that saw more than 20 athletes dip under 29 minutes.
- The 2025 edition saw refugee runner Jamal Abdelmaji Eisa Mohammed take victory in 27:47 with Britain’s Emile Cairess just two seconds behind. On the women’s side, Konstanze Klosterhalfen lowered the German record to 30:46 and Carla Gallardo clocked 31:11, a new Spanish record.
- Numerous recreational runners also notch up personal bests thanks to the flat circuit, cool weather and wave starts.
All this has consolidated Laredo as a reference destination for anyone looking to surpass themselves over 10 km. The race’s reputation has fuelled its growth: in 2025 entries sold out in just a few weeks, and the 2026 edition expects to exceed 3 000 participants.
Details of the 2026 edition
The 23rd edition will take place on Saturday 18 April 2026. According to the official regulations, there will be two starts: at 17:00 the general start for runners of any level and at 19:00 for those who can prove a time under 40 minutes. The start will be located on Marqués de Comillas street and the finish in Juan Carlos I Park. The race is included in the calendars of the Royal Spanish Athletics Federation and the Cantabrian Federation and carries official certification.
Registration opened on 1 December 2025 and will remain available until 10 April 2026 or until all slots are filled. The fee is €23, includes chip bib and technical shirt, and gives access to a drinks station at kilometre 5 and food and drink at the finish. The organisers require entrants to state a recent time to allocate starting corrals and offer optional race-cancellation insurance. Categories range from under‑20 to over‑90, with additional classifications for Cantabrian and Laredo athletes.
Bibs and shirts can be collected on race day from 10:00, and there will be a bag-drop and showers at the Emilio Amavisca sports centre, 200 metres from the finish. The maximum time to complete the race will be 1 hour 15 minutes, making it accessible to runners of all levels.
Course and characteristics
The course comprises two loops of different lengths that add up to 10 km through Laredo’s urban core. It runs almost at sea level and is completely flat, with long straight sections parallel to the seafront promenade and wide curves that make it easy to maintain pace. Every kilometre will be signposted and the route will be closed to traffic to ensure runner safety. Local crowds usually cheer at strategic points, creating a festive atmosphere.
Laredo sits between the Treto estuary and the Santoña bay, and its urban layout offers views of the Cantabrian Sea and the historic town. The first loop goes through the modern district and the marina, while the second ventures into the Puebla Vieja (Old Town), designated a historic-artistic site. This mix of sea and heritage makes the Laredo 10 K a singular experience.
Key results and records
To grasp the significance of this race, simply look at recent times. In 2024 Ethiopia’s Yomif Kejelcha won in 26:37 ahead of Uganda’s Joshua Cheptegei (26:53). In the women’s race, Konstanze Klosterhalfen triumphed in 31:07. A year later, refugee runner Jamal Abdelmaji Eisa Mohammed (27:47) beat Britain’s Emile Cairess by two seconds, while Klosterhalfen and Carla Gallardo engaged in a duel that yielded a German record and a Spanish record of 31:11.
- Men’s course record: Berihu Aregawi, 26:33 (2023).
- Women’s course record: Naomi Chepngeno, 30:30 (2021).
- Spanish men’s record: Toni Abadía, 27:48 (2018).
- Spanish women’s record: Carla Gallardo, 31:11 (2025).
These times show that Laredo is lightning‑fast for elites and recreational runners alike. If you’d like to see full results from 2025, you can find them on the World Athletics website, which publishes all participants’ times.
Tips for running in Laredo and setting a PB
A race this fast demands specific preparation. Beyond following a progressive training plan, it’s worth paying attention to a few details to make the most of the circuit:
- Work on your lactate threshold: include 1‑2 km intervals at race pace with short recoveries to improve your ability to sustain high speeds.
- Strengthen your body: do squats, lunges and core exercises three times a week to handle the impact and improve stride efficiency.
- Simulate race pace: perform 8‑10 km runs at your target pace a few weeks before the race to get used to the sensation of speed.
- Prioritise recovery: alternate demanding sessions with easy runs and make sure you sleep at least seven hours per night.
- Plan your start strategy: if you can run under 40 minutes, sign up for the second wave; you’ll race alongside athletes of your level and avoid constant overtaking.
The SnapRace app can be the perfect ally in your preparation. It lets you design personalised plans, receive real‑time pace cues and analyse your technique thanks to its running form analysis feature. You can also compare your times with other runners and join virtual challenges. For training ideas for a fast 10 km, check out our report on the Valencia 10K Ibercaja 2026, another speedy race where we share preparation tips.
What to do in Laredo during your visit
Make the most of your running getaway to explore one of Cantabria’s most picturesque fishing towns. Laredo has a medieval old quarter, the Puebla Vieja, designated a historic site. Here you can stroll its cobbled lanes and visit the Gothic church of Santa María de la Asunción, which houses a valuable Flemish altarpiece.
If you prefer nature, enjoy the La Salvé beach, a long stretch of sand with dunes and a Blue Flag. Near the town centre you’ll also find Regatón beach on the Treto estuary, perfect for an evening walk. Foodies will love the local seafood on offer: bonito tuna, sardines and anchovies, including the famous Santoña anchovies.
In August the town hosts the Batalla de las Flores, a parade of flower‑covered floats that has national tourist interest status. Also popular are the Desembarco de Carlos V (September) and the festivals of the Virgen de La Bien Aparecida. If you stay longer, take the opportunity to visit nearby Santoña, the marshland nature reserve or Monte Buciero.
For further travel information, visit the official Cantabria tourism website, where you’ll find recommendations for accommodation, restaurants and activities in the area.
Final thoughts
The Laredo 10K 2026 offers the perfect blend of an ultra‑fast course, impeccable organisation and a charming coastal setting. Whether you want to break your personal best or just enjoy a unique experience, this race has all the ingredients to seduce you. Sign up early, plan your training and let SnapRace accompany you every step of the way. See you in Laredo as you fly towards your next PB!