The Valencia Marathon, set for Sunday, December 1, is poised to cap the year with breathtaking competition, elite performances, and a record-breaking prize pool.
This iconic race, renowned for its flat, lightning-fast course, is more than just an opportunity for runners to achieve personal bests—it’s a stage where the world’s top marathoners battle for glory and an unprecedented payday.
Despite recent challenges from a devastating flood, Valencia has rallied with resilience. Organizers have initiated a multi-level fundraising campaign to support those most affected, while ensuring the city is ready to host over 35,000 runners.
The course remains untouched, and the race promises to be as vibrant as ever, showcasing Valencia’s spirit and determination.
Valencia’s marathon course is a runner’s paradise, boasting only 70 meters of total elevation gain. Starting and finishing at the stunning City of Arts and Sciences, the route weaves through the historic city center, picturesque coastal roads, and bustling avenues lined with cheering crowds.
The grand finale—a long, flat straightaway packed with spectators—offers an unforgettable finish for every runner.
The men’s field features some of the sport’s biggest names, including defending champion Sisay Lemma (2:01:48) and veteran legend Kenenisa Bekele, returning after his impressive M40 record last year.
Challenging them will be the likes of Birhanu Legese (2:02:48) and Sebastian Sawe, making his marathon debut after a stellar half-marathon career.
On the women’s side, expect an intense showdown between Kenya’s Megertu Alemu (2:16:34), Ethiopia’s Hiwot Gebrekidan (2:17:59), and rising stars like Uganda’s Stella Chesang and the USA’s Sara Hall.
At the Valencia Marathon, prize money is earned the hard way, there’s no guaranteed minimum payout here.
Instead, runners must deliver top performances to claim their share of the winnings. And while the jaw-dropping €1 million world record bonus steals the headlines, there are plenty of other lucrative rewards up for grabs based on placements and finishing times.
This year, the Valencia Marathon has set the bar incredibly high by offering a €1 million prize for breaking the men’s or women’s world record—a reward no other marathon has dared to propose.
To claim this prize, athletes will need to beat Kelvin Kiptum’s astonishing 2:00:35 (set in 2023) or Ruth Chepngetich’s blistering 2:09:56 (set this October).
For those who fall short of the world record, substantial prizes still await. Breaking the course record or finishing under set time thresholds can earn athletes up to €75,000.
For breaking the current course record of 2:01:48, runners can pocket €30,000.
Beyond that, the winner’s prize depends on their time:
A victory under 2:04:30 (men) or 2:20:00 (women) is worth €75,000.
Finish a bit slower, between 2:04:30 and 2:06:00 for men, or 2:20:00 to 2:22:00 for women—and the payout drops to €50,000.
Times beyond that earn €35,000 for first place.
Second and third-place finishers also see payouts tied to their times.
For second place, bonuses range from €45,000 to €18,000, depending on speed, while third-place awards range from €33,000 to €10,000.
Even finishing in 12th place can earn a runner between €1,000 and €2,000.
To put these numbers in perspective, the 2023 Valencia Marathon would have awarded a total of €411,200 across the top 12 finishers, including bonuses for setting the course record.
The men’s race alone accounted for €227,600 of that, while the women’s race added €183,600.
Valencia’s approach makes every second count, ensuring that athletes leave it all on the course in pursuit of greatness—and, of course, the rewards that come with it.
Fans worldwide can witness the action live via TV broadcasts (RTVE spain channel) or streaming services on Word Athletics. Whether you’re cheering for the elites or tracking friends in the race, Valencia promises to deliver an unforgettable spectacle.
The Valencia Marathon isn’t just another race, it’s a testament to resilience, excellence, and the pursuit of greatness.
With €1 million on the line, history could be made this Sunday. Will you be watching? Can't wait to see the battle!
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