How to Enter the Lisbon Half Marathon

In early March, the Lisbon Half Marathon draws just under 20,000 runners for one of the biggest half marathons in the world. Portugal’s capital becomes a vast playground for road-running enthusiasts. While the Lisbon Half Marathon is regarded as one of Europe’s most prestigious, securing a place has become considerably more difficult. From 2026, hopeful entrants will have to go through a lottery for the chance to race. Several entry routes, some more expensive than others, can still get runners to the start line.

✓ How do you enter the Lisbon Half Marathon, one of Europe’s biggest half marathons?

The lottery becomes mandatory in 2026

The days of turning up to a race and signing up on the day are long gone. With tens of thousands of applications for just under 20,000 bibs, the Lisbon Half Marathon organisers have run into a familiar problem at major races: demand far outstrips supply. They previously operated on a first-come, first-served basis, but that will change in 2026. Anyone hoping to experience the Lisbon Half Marathon will have to enter the lottery. Registration for the draw opens several months before race day, and anyone can apply. The results are then announced by email, with successful applicants able to confirm their entry immediately. Applications for the lottery are made directly through the race’s official website.

Travel to Lisbon and race with an official tour operator

The city of seven hills, bathed in Atlantic light, offers a unique setting for a weekend combining racing and sightseeing. The Lisbon Half Marathon takes runners through spectacular scenery, including the iconic crossing of the 25 de Abril Bridge and a long stretch along the Tagus, between historic landmarks and lively neighbourhoods. The atmosphere is festive from start to finish. To meet international demand, the organisers work with authorised travel agencies, including official tour operators for the SuperHalfs series. These partners offer complete packages with a guaranteed bib, accommodation and transport, along with additional services depending on the package. It is an appealing option for runners who miss out in the lottery, although it comes with a higher price tag. Only partners approved by the race and the SuperHalfs series may sell packages with guaranteed entry, and the list is available on the event’s official platforms.

Run the Lisbon Half Marathon with a charity bib

Charity bibs offer a practical alternative for runners who miss out through the standard entry process or the lottery. Although this route is often more expensive, it secures a place while giving the race an added purpose. By entering through a partner charity, runners commit to raising a minimum amount in donations for causes ranging from healthcare and children’s welfare to social inclusion and environmental protection. In return, the charity guarantees the bib and supports the runner with fundraising tools, advice and, in some cases, kit bearing the charity’s colours. Beyond the practical benefits, a charity bib turns every kilometre into a tangible act of support. Chasing a personal performance becomes a more human, purposeful experience, bringing motivation, solidarity and generosity together.

Lisbon, a member of the prestigious SuperHalfs series

Since 2022, the SuperHalfs series has brought together six prestigious European half marathons, echoing the World Marathon Majors. The Lisbon Half Marathon joined the series at its launch. The Portuguese race is joined by the half marathons in Cardiff, Prague, Copenhagen, Valencia and Berlin. Runners who complete all six races receive a special SuperHalfs medal. The World Athletics Elite Road Race label reflects the high standard of the organisation, its anti-doping programme and its elite field. Held in March, the race offers ideal temperatures and a course built for fast times. From the start, the spectacular route across the 25 de Abril Bridge delights participants and sets up a fast, flowing race.

Entry for sub-elite and elite runners

The Lisbon Half Marathon organisers have assembled all the ingredients to make this one of Europe’s fastest half marathons, and possibly one of the fastest in the world. In 2021, Jacob Kiplimo won decisively in a world-record time of 57:31, which remains the men’s course record. In the women’s race, the course record was most recently broken by Tsigie Gebreselama in 2025. The Ethiopian runner won in a blistering 1:04:21. The organisers build the elite field by inviting a selection of top-level athletes. Runners who meet the qualifying standards can also request an invitation. Elite-status athletes receive several benefits, ranging from free entry to full logistical support. All requests must be sent to the race organisers through the event’s official website.

Times required to obtain elite status:

Under 1:05:00 for the half marathon, men

Under 1:20:00 for the half marathon, women

Times required to start in the front pen:

Under 1:25:00 for the half marathon, women

Under 1:10:00 for the half marathon, men

Lisbon is following the lead of Copenhagen and Cardiff by introducing a lottery in 2026. Runners can also enter through travel agencies or charity bibs.

✓ Find all the entry details for the Lisbon Half Marathon