Since its launch at Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna on 25 February, the European Marathon Classics series has already attracted participants from 105 countries across six continents, reflecting strong interest from the global running community.
The series includes eight marathons: Acea Run Rome The Marathon (22 March), Vienna City Marathon (19 April), TCS London Marathon (26 April), Zurich Rock’n’Roll Running Series Madrid (26 April), Copenhagen Marathon (10 May), Warsaw Marathon (27 September), EDP Maratona de Lisboa (10 October), and Mainova Frankfurt Marathon (25 October).
The highest numbers of registrations to European Marathon Classics come from the United Kingdom (1,007), Italy (897) and Spain (705), followed by Germany (581) and Poland (497).
“This strong participation in the European Marathon Classics shows that this is the right circuit for all running enthusiasts. We want the European Marathon Classics to inspire not only marathon runners, but everyone to practice sport and embrace an active and healthy lifestyle,” said Carlos Moia, founder of the Lisbon Marathon.
The median age of participants is 40, with the largest age group being 35–39 (991 runners). Those aged 30–49 account for nearly 59% of all registrants (3,842). Women make up 24% of participants overall, with the highest proportions in the USA (43.7%) and the UK (30.4%), and the largest female representation in the 18–24 age group (29.8%).
“Seeing such a strong response in just the first two weeks confirms that runners are looking for meaningful challenges that go beyond a single race. European Marathon Classics shows the strength of collaboration between cities and events across the continent, creating a shared platform that celebrates running, community and healthy lifestyles. Our goal is to inspire more people from around the world to discover Europe through sport while building a lasting connection between its iconic marathon destinations,” said David Rumbao, CMO of the Zurich Rock’n’Roll Running Series Madrid.
To earn the title of European Marathon Classics Finisher and a commemorative medal with collectible coins, participants only need to complete five marathons in five different cities. There is no time limit to complete the challenge. Registration for the series is free at www.europeanmarathonclassics.eu. Fees apply only for individual races, in line with the organisers’ rules.
From the third quarter of 2026, in partnership with LetsDoThis.com, runners will be able to submit historical marathon results, dating back as far as 1978, from EMC courses. Each completed or approved historical marathon earns an e-coin, displayed in the participant’s EMC profile.
European Marathon Classics is more than a running series. It is a platform that promotes healthy lifestyles, encourages people to challenge their limits, and brings together runners and local communities across Europe. By combining world-class races with a shared commitment to responsible participation and environmental awareness, the series reflects values that connect all eight events and the people behind them.
For registration and more information: www.europeanmarathonclassics.eu
