Valencia continues to lead the pack. The Spanish Athletics Federation (RFEA) has once again recognised the Valencia Marathon Trinidad Alfonso and the Valencia Half Marathon Trinidad Alfonso Zurich as the best races in their respective categories for 2024. This solidifies the city’s status as a national benchmark for running, backed by years of hard work, organisational excellence and a local crowd that turns each edition into a celebration.
In this article, we break down why these races were awarded, how Valencia’s dominance has grown over time, the recognition of the 10K and Penyagolosa Trails, and the wider social and economic impact of these events.
RFEA awards Valencia’s Marathon and Half Marathon as best races of 2024
The Valencia Marathon and Half Marathon have once again claimed top honours. In its annual awards, the RFEA named them the best races in Spain over their respective distances. It’s not new, but it’s certainly worth highlighting: especially in a year filled with high-level competition and growing demands on race organisers.
The 2024 editions not only broke participation and performance records, but also delivered breathtaking scenes of atmosphere and emotion. If you haven’t seen it yet, check out the official aftermovie of the Valencia Marathon, which perfectly captures the full race experience.
Planning to join in 2025? Don’t wait too long — you can check the Half Marathon waitlist process here or, if you’re aiming for the full distance, visit the Valencia Marathon 2025 event info and explore the registration waitlist and alternative options.
A dominance built over time
These accolades aren’t won overnight. Valencia has spent the past decade establishing itself as the benchmark in Spanish road racing. Since 2015, both the marathon and half marathon have consistently earned top recognition. Year after year, organisers continue to raise the bar in logistics, attract elite athletes and maintain the loyalty of tens of thousands of amateur runners.
More than just awards, it’s about reliability and prestige. These events are must-runs for any serious athlete. Dorsals sell out quickly and times continue to improve — clear signs that Valencia’s races have become staples of the global running calendar.
This excellence naturally connects to the next major highlight…
10K and Penyagolosa Trails also earn top rankings
Alongside the marathon and half marathon, the 10K Valencia Ibercaja was also voted Spain’s best 10K race. It’s the fifth consecutive time it has received this distinction. The 2024 edition even saw a world record: Agnes Jebet Ngetich ran 28:46, the fastest time ever for a woman over the distance.
Off-road, the Penyagolosa Trails also stood out. This trail running event, held in the province of Castellón, has been named the best mountain race in Spain. It’s the fourth time it receives the award — reaffirming its status as a top-tier trail running destination.
All these awards show that the Valencian Community is not only strong on city circuits but also shines in nature-based events.
But the real power of these races goes far beyond trophies and rankings…
The true value of these events also lies in their broader impact. In 2024, the Valencia Marathon generated over €40 million in direct and indirect economic activity — from hotels and restaurants to shops and local services. And that’s without even considering the social return and emotional connection that come with each edition.
This past year also saw strong solidarity initiatives linked to the events, especially in the wake of local flooding. The marathon became a rallying point to show that running can also be about community support.
That’s why Valencia isn’t just a race destination — it’s earned its name as the “City of Running” through consistency, vision and a connection that transcends sport.
