Presentation of the IX Solidarity Race of the Real Madrid Foundation by Azulmarino
The first major event will take place on May 17, with a route that will culminate, for the first time, inside the Bernabéu.
Madrid is preparing for a very special edition of the IX Solidarity Race of the Real Madrid Foundation by Azulmarino, an event that this year takes the experience to a new level. The first major event will take place on May 17, with a route that will culminate, for the first time, inside the Santiago Bernabéu stadium. The novelty will come on June 27, when Ciudad Real Madrid will host an exclusive night race with only 1,000 bibs available.
The presentation took place in the auditorium of Ciudad Real Madrid and featured the participation of Chema Martínez, Olympic athlete and a reference in Spanish athletics; Javier Longarte, General Manager of Retail Distribution at World2Meet; and Antonio Llorente, Director of Gold Running. During the event, the enormous appeal generated by the first race was confirmed: of the 8,000 bibs put on sale, only a few premium packs remain available, reflecting the success of the call.
A project with social impact
Chema Martínez emphasized the strong symbolism of this edition and what the finish line means for the runners: “In that last stretch, when you see the stadium in front of you and you’re running on your last reserves of energy, something changes. Even the most tired runner looks up and sees the Bernabéu, which pushes them to finish. It’s almost more special than the medal because you think: ‘Hey, I’m going to finish here.’”
For the second consecutive year, Azulmarino, the travel agency network of World2Meet (W2M), is driving this solidarity initiative, reinforcing its commitment to the Real Madrid Foundation and its dedication to projects with real social impact. During the presentation, the brand’s involvement was highlighted, as it sees sponsorship as a way to create memorable experiences and connect with values that transcend traditional travel.
A unique route
In this regard, Javier Longarte highlighted the essence of this support: “We always say that we are privileged to work in a sector that brings joy to people, and we feel the responsibility to give back to society a part of what we receive. That’s what drives us.” He also highlighted the evolution of the travel concept: “The travel sector has changed. Traveling is no longer just about taking a plane to go to a hotel and take a picture. Now, people seek personal transformation through the experience. Just as marathon runners prepare for their journey, the trip is now that process of preparation, anticipation, and final satisfaction. That’s what we aim for: a memorable experience that makes you feel fulfilled.”
Antonio Llorente, for his part, emphasized the route and the qualitative leap of this edition: “It will be a real privilege for those lucky enough to run it. Finishing in one of the most emblematic temples of world sports is extraordinary. And this year, moreover, the finish line will be inside the stadium, with an audience, making the experience even more special.”
In addition to Azulmarino as the main sponsor, the race is supported by Adidas, Estadio Bernabéu, Coca‑Cola, Solán de Cabras, the Madrid City Council, ITAI Pharma, Compagnie Fruitière, Plaza Mahou, Extrem, and 226ERS, whose collaboration makes this a top-tier edition possible.
Two dates, the complete journey
On May 17, the capital will host the first race of the circuit, with 10-kilometer, 5-kilometer, and children’s races, designed for runners of all levels. The experience of crossing the finish line inside the Bernabéu promises to become one of the most memorable moments for participants. The journey will be completed on June 27 with this edition’s novelty: the night race at Ciudad Real Madrid.
Much more than running
Each bib contributes to the social sports projects of the Real Madrid Foundation, which promote comprehensive education, the transmission of values, and social inclusion for children, youth, and vulnerable groups in more than 100 countries. A finish line at the Bernabéu, a magical night at Ciudad Real Madrid, and a single solidarity drive that gives meaning to every step.
Disclaimer: Translation generated by artificial intelligence. It may contain inaccuracies.