Castelbuono Running Race 2026

On 26 July 2026, Castelbuono will celebrate the 100th edition of the Castelbuono International Road Race, one of Europe’s most prestigious and long-running road races. First held in 1912 and linked to the celebrations of the Feast of Saint Anne, patron saint of the Madonie village, the event is a historic occasion that brings together sport, tradition and local identity.

Considered by many to be the oldest road race in Europe still in existence, the Running Race takes place along a picturesque circuit in the heart of Castelbuono’s historic centre. The race starts and finishes in Piazza Margherita, passing through some of the town’s most characteristic streets and squares, including Via Roma, Piazza San Francesco, Via Cavour, Piazza Matteotti and Corso Umberto I.

Throughout its long history, the competition has seen middle-distance and road running champions from all over the world compete against one another. From a local event, it has gradually become a major international fixture, establishing itself firmly on the calendar of leading road races and attracting top-level athletes.

The 2026 edition holds particular significance as it marks the prestigious milestone of the 100th edition, paying tribute to a sporting tradition spanning over a century of history. The commemorative poster dedicated to the event recounts this journey through the symbol of the number 100, which encompasses the names of the winners and evokes the continuous movement of running, becoming a metaphor for the memory and continuity of an event deeply rooted in the Castelbuono community.

More than just a sporting competition, the Castelbuono Running Race is an event that involves the entire village every year, transforming the streets of the historic centre into a stage for sport and passion, and reaffirming the strong bond between Castelbuono and one of its most iconic traditions.