The Zurich Seville Marathon 2026 will hold its 41st edition on February 15, 2026, consolidating its status as one of the fastest and most attractive 42 km races in Europe. With a completely flat course that runs past Plaza de España, the Torre del Oro, La Giralda and María Luisa Park, this marathon allows thousands of amateur runners and elite athletes to chase personal bests. In 2025, Ethiopian Selemon Barega claimed his first marathon victory in Seville with a time of 2:05:15, while fellow Ethiopian Anchinalu Dessie clocked 2:22:17, showcasing the course’s potential. Whether you’re planning your marathon debut or aiming to improve your PB, this guide will help you make the most of the event.
When and how to register
Registration for the Zurich Seville Marathon 2026 opened on April 7, 2025 and will remain available until February 9, 2026, or until the 12,000 bibs sell out. The organization offers different price tiers depending on the date and place of residence:
- Residents of the province of Seville: promotional entry of €20.66 until December 5, 2025; €41.36 from December 6 to January 31; €62.05 after the deadline.
- Non-residents: general entry fee of €71.46 until the 12,000 bibs are sold out.
- A 20% discount is available for Andalusian clubs until May 25, 2025, and a waiting list will be opened if bibs sell out.
- The entry includes bib number, timing chip, technical T-shirt and aid stations; a cancellation insurance can also be purchased until January 11, 2026, for €15.
To register, visit the official marathon website and follow the steps provided. If bibs are already sold out, you can sign up for the waiting list; you can also take part in the 5 km charity race held the day before. Don’t forget to arrange your runner’s license or federation license to avoid the €5 RFEA surcharge.
Course and logistics
The Seville course is one of the flattest in Europe, with barely 10 meters of elevation difference between its highest and lowest points. Both the start and finish lines are located on the Paseo de las Delicias. Over the 42.195 km, runners pass iconic landmarks such as Plaza de España, the Torre del Oro, La Giralda, the Triana neighborhood and María Luisa Park. The lack of sharp turns and the mild February climate favor fast paces and personal bests.
The course is fully paved, certified by World Athletics, and features aid stations every 5 km. The organization provides pace-based starting corrals, pacers for target times from 2:45 to 4:30, a bag drop area at the finish, and physiotherapy services after the race. If you’re traveling from abroad, check the organizers’ recommendations on how to get to and stay in Seville.
History, records and key figures
The Seville Marathon was founded in 1985 and has become a benchmark for runners seeking a fast course. In 2024, Ethiopian Deresa Geleta set the course record with a time of 2:03:27, while Ethiopian Alemu Megertu holds the women’s record at 2:18:52 (2022). The 40th edition in 2025 crowned Selemon Barega in his marathon debut with 2:05:15 and Anchinalu Dessie with 2:22:17, proving once again that Seville remains one of the fastest marathon courses in the world.
Beyond elite performances, the Seville Marathon stands out for its vibrant atmosphere: live bands, cheering groups and thousands of spectators line the course throughout the race. The 2026 edition retains the World Athletics Elite Label and is part of the AIMS calendar, guaranteeing international organizational standards.
Training tips and race strategy
Training for a flat and fast marathon requires more than just logging miles. Below are key recommendations to arrive in peak shape on February 15 and fully take advantage of Seville’s speedy course.
- Plan ahead: preparation typically lasts 12 to 16 weeks. Gradually include long runs up to 32–35 km to build endurance. Our article on Norwegian 4×4 training explains how high-intensity sessions can improve your VO2 max without increasing injury risk.
- Work on strength and core: exercises like squats, lunges, deadlifts and planks strengthen your legs and core, improving running economy. Check out our guide to strength training for runners to design your routines.
- Practice nutrition and hydration: rehearse your gel and sports drink strategy during long runs to avoid surprises on race day. Make sure to eat breakfast at least two hours before the race and avoid new foods that week.
- Simulate race pace: include marathon-pace workouts (3×5 km or 2×8 km) to internalize your target speed. Use 10K tests or half marathons to fine-tune your pacing.
- Don’t neglect rest: sleep 7–8 hours per night and reduce volume by 30–40% during the final two weeks. Proper tapering will help you arrive fresh and fully fueled.
The organization also offers free training groups in Madrid and Seville led by coaches Pablo Villalobos and Rubén Álvarez, respectively. These sessions include personalized plans and weekly support, making them an excellent option for runners looking to improve technique and share the journey with others.
Final preparations and tourism in Seville
During race week, be sure to visit the runner’s expo to collect your bib and race bag. Remember to bring your ID and registration confirmation. The expo features sports gear stands, technical talks, and the traditional pasta party.
Seville boasts a rich historical and gastronomic heritage. Take time to visit the Royal Alcázar, stroll through the Santa Cruz district, or enjoy local cuisine in Triana. However, avoid excessive walking in the two days leading up to the race to stay fresh.
Train and race with SnapRace
SnapRace is the perfect app to turn any run into a friendly competition. Unlike other apps, it offers turn-by-turn route guidance, live leaderboards to race your friends, and adaptive training plans tailored to your level. To prepare for the Seville Marathon 2026, you can:
- Explore local and specific routes: find long, flat routes in your area or design your own marathon circuit to simulate the Seville distance.
- Compete on segments: create challenges with your training group on key sections of your long runs and motivate each other to improve.
- Follow adaptive plans: use SnapRace’s virtual coach to get personalized sessions that adapt to your goals and availability.
- Share your progress: log your runs with Apple Watch or iPhone and share stats with the community to receive support and advice.
Download SnapRace on the App Store and turn your journey to Seville into a more fun and competitive experience. Your race starts here.
Note: information regarding dates, prices and conditions may be subject to change. Always check the official event website to confirm details.