Frequently Asked Questions

2026 EDITION

First of all, should I read the race regulations?

Well, the truth is that it is highly recommended. We know that we almost never pay attention to it, but it only takes about 5 minutes and would clear up many doubts. The official race regulations are mandatory knowledge and compliance for all participants. Not knowing them does not exempt you from complying.

When and where is the Movistar Madrid Half Marathon?

This one is easy. The Movistar Madrid Half Marathon will take place next March 22, 2026 in Madrid. The start will be at 9:15 a.m. from Paseo de la Castellana, at the height of the Villa Magna hotel, while the finish line will be located on Paseo de Recoletos, at number 12, although both may vary a few meters as we are awaiting certification confirmation.

Can I transfer or sell my bib number if I can't run?

Due to the large number of registered runners, the organization has to manage everything well in advance. Weeks before the race the bibs are already printed, the medals purchased, different supplies in progress and many other things. All that cannot be returned by the organization. In addition, the insurance is personal and only covers the registered person. That is why it is important that the bib number is used by the registered runner. In the event of any incident where the runner is affected, the insurance company and the organization could take legal action against the offender and the person who transferred the bib. For this reason, we offer legal options to make the change. Thus, if you cannot run for any reason after February 28, you can request a change of ownership at the Runner’s Expo for a fee of €10.

Are there wave starts?

To help everyone run at their own pace right from the start, without stopping, the following waves will take place at approximately these times

  • 09:15 h. Wave 1. Corrals up to 1h40
  • 09:19 h. Wave 2. Corrals up to 1h50
  • 09:23 h. Wave 3. Corrals up to 2h00
  • 09:27 h. Wave 4. Corrals over 2h00

But that does not mean we should be at the start at different times. All runners must be ready before 9:15. We will publish on the website and social media how to access the corrals and the bib colors for each time block.

Is there a cut-off time to finish the race?

Yes. The maximum time to complete the race is 3 hours from the start gun at 9:15 a.m.

Where can I register?

Registrations are available until March 8, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. on the official website, www.movistarmediomaratonmadrid.es, where there is a direct link on the homepage. You may also register at the Runner’s Expo, but at a price of €80.

What are the registration deadlines and prices?

  • First 2,000 bibs or until May 12: €25
  • Bibs 2,001–5,000 or until June 30: €35
  • Bibs 5,001–9,000 or until September 30: €40
  • Bibs 9,001–15,000 or until November 1: €49
  • Bibs 15,001–20,000 or until January 7: €59
  • Bibs 20,001–25,000 or until February 15: €65
  • Bibs 25,001–end or until March 8: €69
  • At expo or waitlist €80

+€3 day insurance for those without an RFEA athletics license.

What are the race categories?

  • Overall M / F: all age groups for each gender
  • Sub20: Born in 2007 and 2008
  • Sub23: Born from 2004 to 2006
  • Senior: Born from 2003 up to 35 years old
  • Master M-35 / F-35: From 35 to 39 years old
  • Master M-40 / F-40: From 40 to 44 years old
  • Master M-45 / F-45: From 45 to 49 years old
  • Master M-50 / F-50: From 50 to 54 years old
  • Master M-55 / F-55: From 55 to 59 years old
  • Master M-60 / F-60: From 60 to 64 years old
  • Master M-65 / F-65: From 65 to 69 years old
  • Master M-70 / F-70: From 70 to 74 years old
  • Master M-75 / F-75: From 75 to 79 years old
  • Master M-80 / F-80: From 80 to 85 years old
  • Master M-85 / F-85: Over 85 years old.
  • Athlete with disability in wheelchair M / F
  • Athlete with Physical/Intellectual disability M / F

IMPORTANT: All indicated ages must be reached on the day of the race.

Where and when do I pick up my bib, shirt and runner’s bag?

The runner’s bag, bib-chip and shirt must be collected exclusively at the Runner’s Expo, on March 19 from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m., March 20 and 21 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., at Distrito Telefonica, Avda. Ronda de la Comunicación s/n, Edificio Servicios, floor 1, Madrid

Admission is free for runners, companions and the general public.

How do I know my bib number?

The organization sends an email to all runners during the event week informing them of their bib number. If you have not received it, check your spam or junk mail folder. You can also check it through a link that will be published on the official race website.

What do I need to pick up my bib and runner’s bag?

To pick up your bib, you must present the registration receipt or copy and your ID or passport. After receiving your bib, there will be an area to collect your runner’s bag and the official Joma race shirt, for which it will be essential to present your bib.

How can I pick up my bib if I cannot go to the expo?

If a runner cannot go to the expo to pick up their bib, it may be collected by another person as long as they bring the registration receipt or copy, plus a photocopy of the runner’s ID and a signed authorization.

What chip is used and when do I pick it up?

The chip is attached to the back of the bib and is single-use. It does not need to be returned at the finish. It is picked up at the Runner’s Expo. It is very important not to fold, remove or tamper with the chip in any way, as it may be damaged and you will not appear in the results.

Is there a bag check service?

Yes. It is free and will operate from 7:30 a.m. at Plaza de Colón, next to the start and finish. With the bib you will receive a sticker with your bib number. Remember to bring it for easier sorting and locating your belongings. Avoid leaving valuables and try to bring a backpack to store everything.

Are there toilets? Where are they located?

Yes. There are many portable toilets installed near the start and finish area.

Where are the aid stations located?

There will be liquid aid stations approximately at kilometers 5, 10, 14.6 and 19, and then in the finish area. At the finish you will receive a special bag with liquid and solid refreshments thanks to the collaboration of AhorraMas supermarkets.

Can someone accompany me on a bicycle during the race?

No. It is strictly forbidden to accompany runners on a bicycle, skates or any other type of vehicle. The federative regulations sanction it with disqualification. In addition, they may unintentionally cause an accident, whose consequences would not be covered by the insurance… and we all want to finish the race without incidents.

Are there starting corrals?

Yes. For a start more in line with each runner’s pace, the following corrals are established based on the estimated finish times: Elite – Sub 1h14, 1h15–1h22, 1h23–1h30, 1h31–1h40, 1h41–1h45, 1h46–1h50, 1h51–1h55, 1h56–2h and over 2h.

To access a corral with a time under 1h30 it is necessary to inform the Organization, at the time of registration, of your certified personal best, which must be equal to or faster than the corral time you wish to enter. To certify the time, only results achieved in the last two years in officially certified Half Marathon races will be valid.

Are there pacers in the race?

Of course. We provide a team of 40 expert runners to take you to the finish line at the pace you choose… or can maintain. We will have clearly identified pacers for these times: 1h25, 1h30, 1h35, 1h40, 1h45, 1h50, 1h55, 2h, 2h5 and 2h10.

Can I personalize my finisher medal?

Yes, you can engrave your name and finish time – it will be a great keepsake. When registering you can request medal engraving for 7 €. You can also do it in the finish area, at a tent next to the bag drop zone, for 10 €.

Are there showers at the finish?

No, we’re sorry. A course that starts and finishes right in the city center means we do not have nearby facilities to offer showers to so many participants, nor space to set up portable showers.

Is the aid station water served in cups or bottles?

All aid stations serve water in 0.33-liter bottles to make it easier to drink while running. We ask you to please be careful where you throw your bottles after drinking.

Is there any accommodation offer for those coming from outside?

Of course. Rafael Hoteles is an accommodation with great care for runners, where the elite stay and where you will have many amenities: discounted rates, Sunday breakfast from 6:30 a.m., special athlete-friendly daily menus, the possibility of picking up your bib at the hotel, late check-out… You can find the information in the Practical Info section of the website.

What is the official race app?

The Official App of the Movistar Madrid Half Marathon, available for free on the App Store and Google Play, allows you to broadcast your position during the race so friends and family can track you. You can follow runners in real time and check their times at intermediate timing points. You can also check the most relevant information about the race: rules, news, accommodation, galleries, runner’s expo… Download it!

Will I be able to get photos of my participation in the Movistar Madrid Half Marathon?

We provide you with a large number of photographers through Pica, a leading company in race photography. Visit the website www.kstfotografia.com, where you can see yourself and buy the photos you want at a special price.

Title sponsor

Movistar

Official Sports Brand

Joma

Silver Sponsors

Huawei
Ahorramas
Deloitte
NDL
Viamed Salud

Partners

Oak Berry
Gourmet Latino
Rafael Hoteles
Alquiber
Voluntarios x Madrid
Patinando.net
eqm
Sanytol
Toyota Kuruma
Runna
RIVFORDEA
KST Fotografía
Refeel

International services

Finishers
Ahotu

Institutions

Ayuntamiento de Madrid
IAAF
AIMS
RFEA
FAM
Comunidad de Madrid

Official Media

Revista corredor
atresmedia
Revista Sportlife