Aveiro, Portugal APRIL 25TH AND 26TH 2026
Source: https://europemarathon.eu/en/
The Maratona da Europa (Europe Marathon) is a relatively young but rapidly ascending event in the world of long-distance running. Based in the scenic “Venice of Portugal,” Aveiro, it has quickly established itself as one of the country’s premier athletic events alongside the historic marathons in Lisbon and Porto.
Here is a look at its history and evolution:
1. Origins and Rapid Growth (2019–Present)
The marathon was inaugurated in 2019 as a joint initiative between the Aveiro City Council, the neighboring municipality of Ílhavo, and Global Sport. Its goal was twofold: to create a world-class sporting event and to promote the Aveiro region’s unique tourism and natural landscape.
- Inaugural Year (2019): The event launched with massive local support, positioning itself as the only major Portuguese marathon held in the Spring.
- The Pandemic Gap: Like most global events, it faced disruptions in 2020 and 2021 due to COVID-19.
- The Comeback (2022–2024): Since its return, the race has seen exponential growth in participation. By 2025, it reached a milestone of roughly 20,000 participants from over 77 different nationalities.
2. Rising to Global Recognition
The Maratona da Europa’s most significant “historical” moment occurred recently. Within just a few editions, it achieved official certification from World Athletics:
- Top 100 Status: In 2024, the race leaped 60 positions to become the 95th best marathon in the world according to the World Athletics ranking.
- Label Status: It currently holds the World Athletics “Label” status, which allows elite athletes to earn points toward world rankings and international qualifications.
3. Course Records and Characteristics
The marathon is famous for being one of the flattest courses in the world, making it a “PR (Personal Record) course.” It winds through the city’s iconic canals, the Art Nouveau architecture of Aveiro, and the coastal beauty of Ílhavo and Praia da Barra.
Current Records (as of 2024/2025): | Category | Runner | Time | Year | | :— | :— | :— | :— | | Men’s Record | Mohamed Chaaboud (MAR) | 2:09:20 | 2024 | | Women’s Record | Betty Chepleting (KEN) | 2:32:00 | 2024 |
4. More Than Just a Marathon
Over time, the event has expanded into a multi-day festival of sport. It currently includes four distinct categories to ensure inclusivity:
- Marathon (42.195 km): The flagship elite race.
- Half Marathon (21.0975 km): A highly popular distance for regional runners.
- Mini-Marathon (10 km): Focused on speed and amateur participation.
- Solidarity Walk (5 km): A non-competitive event aimed at families and charity.
Key Figures
- Aurora Cunha: A triple world road running champion and Portuguese athletics icon, she serves as the honorary godmother of the event.
- João Neto: A prominent “inclusive godfather,” known for pushing children in adapted chairs through the full marathon distance.
