Lisbon Half Marathon is recognized as one of the fastest half marathon courses in the world, thanks to its flat profile and proximity to sea level. These features provide an ideal setting for both elite athletes and amateur runners to achieve personal bests. The race has previously hosted world record performances and continues to serve as an important benchmark in the international athletics calendar in terms of course and world records.

History and Development

The Lisbon Half Marathon (Meia Maratona de Lisboa) is an international road running event held annually in March in Lisbon, the capital of Portugal. It was first organized in 1991 by the Maratona Clube de Portugal (MCP). Over the years, it has gained both local and international recognition, particularly between 2010 and 2018 when several world records were set on its course.

The event has expanded over time with parallel races such as the Vodafone 10K and the Mini Marathon, bringing the total number of participants to over 30,000. Celebrating its 31st edition in 2022, the race has been part of the SuperHalfs series as of 2025.

Route

The race starts on the 25 de Abril Bridge (Ponte 25 de Abril), which is specially opened to pedestrian traffic for the event. Participants begin their run over the Tagus River and proceed westward. The course passes through neighborhoods such as Alcântara, Cais do Sodré, and Algés, ending in front of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Jerónimos Monastery (Mosteiro dos Jerónimos).

The course is extremely flat, with a total elevation change of about 40 meters, making it suitable for both first-time half marathon runners and experienced athletes seeking personal records. Detailed course maps are available through the event’s official links.

^{Lisbon Half Marathon Route (Watch Athletics)}

Entry Requirements

Anyone aged 18 or older can register for the half marathon and the 10K races. Online registration is mandatory. Participants must collect their race bibs and kits in person or via an authorized representative at the Sport Expo held during the three days prior to the race.

On race day, participants can use Lisbon’s metro, train, and bus services for free by showing their bib numbers. Access to the starting line on the 25 de Abril Bridge is provided via Fertagus Pragal Station. The maximum time limit for the race is set at 3 hours.

^{Lisbon Half Marathon (Generated Using Artificial Intelligence)}

Awards and Performances

Winners receive cash prizes and various sponsorship gifts. In addition to the elite athlete categories, rankings are also made by age groups.

The event has historically been a venue for world records in both men's and women's categories, making it highly attractive for athletes aiming for top performances.

Course Records

The fastest times recorded at the Lisbon Half Marathon course are:

• Men’s Course Record: Jacob Kiplimo (Uganda) – 57:31 (2021)
• Women’s Course Record: Tsigie Gebreselama (Ethiopia) – 1:04:21 (2025)

These times highlight the course’s favorable conditions for elite performances.

World Records

• Men’s World Record: Kibiwott Kandie (Kenya) – 57:32 (Valencia Half Marathon, December 6, 2020)
• (Note: Jacob Kiplimo’s 57:31 time was later recognized, but Kandie's mark remains recorded officially at the time.)
• Women’s World Record: Letesenbet Gidey (Ethiopia) – 1:02:52 (Valencia Half Marathon, October 24, 2021)

Although the current world records were set in Valencia, Lisbon historically hosted a world record when Zersenay Tadese ran 58:23 in 2010, further establishing the course’s reputation.

Cultural Significance and Community Participation

The Lisbon Half Marathon is one of the largest mass sporting events in Portugal. During the event, major city roads are closed to traffic, and locals, along with volunteers, actively support the organization.

The course offers a touristic experience, passing landmarks such as the 25 de Abril Bridge, Belém Tower, Monument to the Discoveries, the Tagus River, and the Jerónimos Monastery.

The event week is enhanced by cultural activities, including live performances from local artists and street musicians, contributing to Lisbon’s cultural promotion alongside the sporting competition.

Organization and SuperHalfs Series

The Lisbon Half Marathon is organized by the Maratona Clube de Portugal (MCP), which also manages other running events in the city such as the Lisbon Marathon.

The race is part of the SuperHalfs series, which includes:

• Berlin Half Marathon
• Prague Half Marathon
• Copenhagen Half Marathon
• Cardiff Half Marathon
• Valencia Half Marathon

SuperHalfs participants who complete all six races within 36 months are awarded a SuperMedal, with progress tracked via the SuperPassport system. All races in the series hold World Athletics Gold Label status and uphold environmental sustainability principles, with a portion of registration fees supporting ecological projects.