Zegama-Aizkorri 2026 once again puts the Basque Country at the heart of trail running. The 25th edition of this legendary mountain marathon will take place on May 17, 2026, with the Vertical Kilometer scheduled for May 15 and the Junior Trail on the same day as the marathon. With only 225 race bibs available and a highly competitive lottery system, securing a spot requires strategy—and a bit of luck. In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about registration, the course, key updates, and how to prepare for a race that combines intensity, technical terrain and an unmatched atmosphere.
How to get a bib for Zegama-Aizkorri 2026
The organisers have confirmed the registration timeline for the 25th edition. Pre-registration for the marathon opens on January 12, 2026 at 12:00 and will remain open until January 23. During this period, runners can apply via the Kronoak platform to enter the draw for one of the limited 225 bibs. On January 26, pre-registration opens for the Vertical Kilometer (5.2 km with 1,015 m of elevation gain) and the Junior Trail. The public draw will take place on February 20. According to the organisers, priority is given to runners with strong mountain race results and previous participants, although all applicants enter the lottery.
In addition to the lottery, there are reserved entries for elite runners and federations. As part of the Golden Trail World Series, athletes invited by organisers or sponsors gain direct access. For everyone else, the only way in is through the lottery. If you don’t get a bib, attending as a spectator is still an unforgettable experience—especially at iconic points like Sancti-Spiritu.
Course and race categories
The Zegama marathon covers 42 km through the Aizkorri-Aratz Natural Park, with around 2,736 metres of elevation gain and summiting four of Gipuzkoa’s most iconic peaks: Aratz, Aizkorri, Aitxuri and Andraitz. The terrain is highly technical, combining mud, rocks and grassy sections where maintaining rhythm is a constant challenge. Continuous climbs and descents, combined with unpredictable weather, make this race particularly demanding.
In 2025, favourable conditions led to a fast race, with victories by Morocco’s Elhousine Elazzaoui (3:43:28) and local runner Sara Alonso (4:27:25).
- Marathon (May 17, 2026): 42 km and 2,736 m+. Limited to 225 runners. Part of the Golden Trail World Series.
- Vertical Kilometer (May 15, 2026): 5.2 km with 1,015 m of ascent. A brutal uphill time trial to Sancti-Spiritu.
- Junior Trail: race for runners aged 16–18 with a shorter adapted course.
The atmosphere is one of Zegama’s biggest highlights. Thousands of spectators line the course, creating legendary human corridors—especially at Sancti-Spiritu—making the race truly unique.
Top contenders for 2026
The 2025 edition crowned Elhousine Elazzaoui and Sara Alonso, who are expected to return as favourites. Other potential contenders include Stian Angermund, Daniel Pattis and Judith Wyder, along with a possible comeback from Kilian Jornet, the race’s most iconic figure. Final line-ups will depend on invitations and Golden Trail Series qualification, but the level will undoubtedly be world-class.
For non-elite runners, Zegama is an extremely demanding goal. Prior experience in mountain marathons is highly recommended. Stay updated through specialised outlets like TrailRunAdvisor or iRunFar.
Training tips to conquer Zegama
Finishing Zegama-Aizkorri requires more than endurance—it demands strength, technique and resilience. Key training tips include:
- Uphill training: long hill efforts (10–30 minutes) combining running and hiking.
- Technical descents: train on rough terrain to improve control and eccentric strength.
- Strength and plyometrics: include squats, lunges and jumps at least twice per week.
- Threshold work: use tempo runs and fartlek to adapt to pace changes.
- Race simulation: compete in similar trail races to gain experience and improve your application profile.
Recovery is just as important: plan easier weeks, prioritise sleep and nutrition, and include mobility work. Training with your race gear is also highly recommended.
Prepare for Zegama with SnapRace
The SnapRace app can help you prepare smarter. Track your training, analyse elevation and performance, build tailored plans and share progress with other runners. You can also discover mountain routes and take part in challenges that simulate Zegama’s demands.
If you dream of climbing Aizkorri surrounded by thousands of fans, now is the time to start. Register for the lottery, train with purpose and enjoy the journey. See you on May 17, 2026 at the start line!