The Zurich Marathon San Sebastián, one of Spain’s most iconic running events, was cancelled on Sunday due to hazardous weather conditions. High winds, recorded at 93 km/h and forecasted to exceed 120 km/h, forced organizers to prioritize safety, announcing the cancellation less than 24 hours before the race. Over 12,000 participants from 63 countries had planned to run the 46th edition of this celebrated marathon.
Race organizers issued a statement expressing regret while underscoring the importance of safety. “With winds exceeding 120 km/h, the risks to runners, staff, and spectators were too severe to proceed. Safety must always come first.” Participants will be contacted with details on next steps, including potential refunds or deferrals to the 2025 event.
The marathon’s route, which winds along the stunning beaches of La Concha, Ondarreta, and Zurriola, would have exposed runners to intense coastal gusts. Winds of this strength can cause structural damage, uproot trees, and create unsafe conditions, making it impossible to proceed with the event. Such winds would have significantly affected performances and safety even under less extreme conditions.
While some runners expressed disappointment after traveling to the Basque Country for the event, most supported the decision. “This must have been an incredibly hard choice, but safety always comes first. I fully support the organizers,” wrote one participant on social media. Others shared optimism for future editions of the marathon, praising its reputation as one of the most scenic and well-organized races in Europe.
The Zurich Marathon San Sebastián 2024 was expected to be a record-breaking event for participation, solidifying its status as a top-tier race. Despite this year’s cancellation, the marathon remains a must-run event for athletes worldwide, thanks to its unique coastal route and international appeal.
