Lisbon has strengthened its position on the international running calendar after officially joining the newly created European Marathon Classics circuit, a pan European initiative that brings together eight major marathon races across the continent. Organisers confirmed the development in Vienna, marking a significant milestone for Portugal’s flagship 42.195 kilometre race.
The European Marathon Classics circuit has been launched under the motto one distance eight cities many cultures and a shared European identity. It is led the London Marathon, one of the world’s most prestigious long distance races and part of the globally recognised marathon majors alongside Boston, Berlin, Chicago, New York, Sydney and Tokyo. The inclusion of Lisbon places the Portuguese capital among some of Europe’s most established marathon destinations.
Carlos Moia, president of the Marathon Club of Portugal, said the move reinforces Lisbon’s international profile and strengthens its appeal to elite athletes and amateur runners alike. He highlighted that the city continues to assert itself on the global sports stage, combining athletic excellence with tourism, culture and community engagement across Cascais, Oeiras and Lisbon.
Under the rules of the new circuit, runners are challenged to complete marathons in at least eight participating cities to earn finalist status. Those who complete five marathons in five different cities will be recognised as finishers and awarded a personalised medal featuring symbols from each completed race. Marathons previously completed in Lisbon, including the editions held since the race’s launch in 2013, will count toward the challenge, which has no time limit.
The 2026 European Marathon Classics calendar begins in Rome on March 22, followed Vienna on April 19. Madrid and London host races on April 26, with Copenhagen closing the spring season on May 10. After the summer break, Warsaw resumes the circuit on September 27, before Lisbon hosts its race on October 10 and Frankfurt concludes the series on October 25.
Lisbon Marathon organisers have set ambitious participation targets. After separating the marathon from the Portugal Half Marathon in 2025 and moving the start to Carcavelos as part of a partnership with London, the event is aiming for 18,000 runners this year, up from 15,000 previously. The long term objective is to reach 25,000 participants within three years.
The Lisbon Half Marathon also continues to expand its international presence. The 35th edition will take place on March 8, starting at the 25th of April Bridge in Almada. It forms part of the SuperHalfs circuit alongside Prague, Berlin, Copenhagen, Cardiff and Valencia, attracting thousands of runners seeking to complete multiple European half marathons.
With its coastal route, historic landmarks and growing international partnerships, the Lisbon Marathon is positioning itself as a key destination on the European endurance running map, strengthening Portugal’s role in global sports tourism.
