Running News Daily

The race for a coveted place at one of the world's most prestigious and fastest half marathons has officially begun, with registration for the 2027 Valencia Half Marathon now open through a public ballot.

The organisers opened the application process on Tuesday, November 10, giving runners from around the world an opportunity to secure one of the 11,205 places available through the draw. However, aspiring participants will have to act quickly, as applications close at 10:59 a.m. Spanish time on Monday, November 16.

Competition for entry is expected to be fierce, following the overwhelming demand witnessed during last year's inaugural ballot. A total of 50,766 runners applied for just 12,402 available places, meaning approximately one in every four applicants secured an opportunity to participate.

The 2027 edition will have a total allocation of 25,000 race bibs. Runners who participated in the 2026 edition were given priority through a four-day loyalty registration window, which closed on November 9. The remaining places have now been made available through the public ballot.

Entering the draw is free, although applicants must authorise a temporary €5 charge on their payment cards, which will be held for 15 days. The selection process will take place before a notary on November 17, with successful applicants scheduled to receive their results by email on November 18.

Those fortunate enough to secure a place will have until November 25 to complete payment and confirm their participation.

The 2027 Valencia Half Marathon is scheduled for Sunday, October 24, and is expected to attract another impressive international field of elite athletes, recreational runners and thousands of running enthusiasts.

Valencia has earned a global reputation as a destination for extraordinary performances, thanks to its remarkably fast, flat course, wide roads and minimal turns, making it one of the most attractive venues for athletes chasing personal bests and record-breaking times.

The course made history in 2024 when Ethiopia's Yomif Kejelcha stormed to a sensational 57:30, setting the men's half marathon world record.

With demand expected to remain high, competition for the available places is likely to be intense, particularly after last year's overwhelming response. Runners hoping to take part in the 2027 edition must submit their applications before the November 16 deadline and await the outcome of the official draw.

Successful applicants will earn the opportunity to line up in Valencia on October 24, 2027, for another edition of a race that continues to attract runners from across the world in pursuit of fast times, personal bests and historic performances.