The MiM returns with a top-tier line-up in its 27th edition, promising excitement from start to finish

FUGA Penyagolosa Trails will turn Castellón into the epicentre of trail running with a MiM celebrating its 27th edition. The historic 60-kilometre race will bring together some of the best runners on the national and international scene, setting the stage for a top-level battle on April 18.

Canales, the man to beat

In the men’s race, all eyes are on José Ángel Fernández “Canales”, three-time champion and current course record holder (5:12:54), who returns to Castellón aiming for his fourth victory. The Kailas FUGA team runner will once again line up with the goal of continuing to build his legacy in a race he knows inside out.

Alongside him is Marc Bernades, one of the standout names in Spanish trail running, who has shown remarkable resilience after his injury in 2025. His return to top form, with strong results in national championships and international circuits, places him among the main podium contenders.

Joining them is Dakota Jones, one of the most recognisable figures in global ultra trail running. A two-time Transvulcania winner and regular podium finisher in iconic races, the American will make his MiM debut with an outstanding track record and a philosophy closely aligned with the values of the race—adding a special dimension to his presence in Castellón.

A wide-open men’s top 10

The list of favourites also includes names such as Leonard Mitrica, Romanian champion and regular competitor at major international events; Fran Anguita, in great form after his recent podium at Transgrancanaria; Mario Olmedo, runner-up at the MiM in 2023; Claudio Díaz, one of Spain’s ultra trail references; Manuel Anguita, with strong results in international races; Pablo Bautista, Spanish trail running runner-up; and Daniel Castillo, known for his experience and consistency at a high level.

This group is further strengthened by a strong international presence, reinforcing the global character of the race, with runners such as Kevin Vermeulen, MiM winner in 2022; French runner Gautier Bonnecarrère, a regular in major European races; and Norway’s Anders J. Kjærevik, a familiar face at Penyagolosa who returns year after year.

Alongside them, local participation will once again play a key role. Runners such as David Prades, Cristian Ibáñez and Samuel Palomera will be aiming to take centre stage in a race they know perfectly well.

History and character on the start line

In the women’s race, the level is once again outstanding. The spotlight will be on Inés Astrain, current course record holder (6:07:46), who returns after delivering a historic performance in the previous edition. Her race was not just a victory—it was a display of control, intelligence and connection with the course, always with a smile.

Alongside her is Gemma Arenas, a true legend of Penyagolosa, with eight podium finishes in the race and one of the most consistent athletes. Year after year, she returns to Castellón with the same enthusiasm, proving that her relationship with the MiM goes far beyond results.

Also on the start line will be Azara García, MiM winner in 2019 and one of the most charismatic runners in Spanish trail running. Her return to Penyagolosa generates great anticipation: intensity, character and competitiveness define an athlete who already knows what it takes to win here.

The field is completed by runners such as Norway’s Sara Rebekka Linde, with multiple participations and strong finishes at the MiM; Anna Comet, one of the most experienced runners on the international scene; Gisela Carrión, with an impressive international track record; Cèlia Balcells, Spanish Snowrunning champion; and Maud Combarieu, with victories in long-distance races.

Local female talent

On the local side, the women’s field will include names closely linked to the territory such as Isabel Llorach, Sandra Lafuente, María Jesús Marco and María Mecho—runners who embody the spirit of Penyagolosa and take on the race with the added motivation of competing on home soil.

With this line-up, MiM 2026 reaffirms its position as one of the key events on the calendar, where sporting excellence meets the essence of a race defined by tradition, territory and sustainability. On April 18, the road to Sant Joan will once again decide who writes their name into the history of Penyagolosa.

800 volunteers ready for FUGA Penyagolosa Trails 2026

Just a few weeks ahead of FUGA Penyagolosa Trails 2026, nearly 800 volunteers are already working on coordinating one of the most iconic events in trail running. Their role is key to ensuring the smooth running of the race and reinforcing its commitment to the natural environment.

Yesterday afternoon, the organisation held a coordination meeting with volunteer representatives at the Cajamar auditorium—premium partner of the event—with the aim of aligning the work of the different teams and finalising preparations for April 18.

Coming from 21 collaborating clubs, volunteers play a fundamental role in the development of the race, taking part in essential tasks such as course logistics, runner safety, and the event’s environmental management.

Many of them return year after year, becoming the soul of the race and one of its defining elements, thanks to the atmosphere they create and their dedication at every point along the course.

Race director Tico Cervera highlighted their importance:
“Volunteers are what make everything work on race day. From aid stations to assisting a runner, their work is present in every detail. They are an essential part of the team.”

The race will be broadcast live on the official FUGA Penyagolosa Trails website and on Evasión TV, from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

On April 18, all this work will once again come to life in the mountains, where runners, volunteers and the territory come together to bring a new edition of FUGA Penyagolosa Trails to life.

FUGA Penyagolosa Trails prepares a new edition with a focus on sustainability

With one month to go until FUGA Penyagolosa Trails 2026, set to take place on April 18, the organisation once again highlights one of the race’s defining pillars: its commitment to sustainability and respect for the natural environment of the Parc Natural de Penyagolosa.

Beyond the sporting challenge represented by the MiM and the CSP, the Castellón-based race has been working for years to prove that it is possible to organise a major trail running event while minimising its impact on the mountains. In 2017, FUGA Penyagolosa Trails obtained the UNE-EN ISO 20121 certification, which endorses its sustainable management system and its commitment to continuous improvement in environmental, social and economic areas.

Sustainable mobility to reach the finish line

One of the key measures is the responsible mobility policy on race day, especially in the finish area, located in Sant Joan de Penyagolosa, within the natural park.

For environmental and safety reasons, direct vehicle access will be restricted. To facilitate access for supporters, a parking area will be set up 3 kilometres from Vistabella, from where a free shuttle bus service will run to the finish line.

In addition, runners will have access to a dedicated shuttle service back to Castellón:

● From 3:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., with departures every 30 minutes
● From 8:30 p.m. to 2:00 a.m., with departures every hour

Stops will be located at Universitat Jaume I and Plaza Independencia (Farola).

Running in the mountains, respecting the mountains

The FUGA Penyagolosa Trails route runs along trails and tracks within the Parc Natural de Penyagolosa, an environment that requires special care to minimise the impact of the race.

In this regard, the organisation emphasises the importance of following a set of basic measures during the event:

● Always stay on the marked course, avoiding shortcuts that may cause soil erosion, especially in sensitive sections such as the Camí dels Pelegrins de Les Useres.

● Reduce waste generation. The use of a personal cup is mandatory, and all waste must be properly sorted at aid stations.

● Respect designated areas for spectators and assistance to avoid overcrowding and ensure safety.

● Limit noise and light impact, with restrictions on the use of loudspeakers, sound entertainment elements and non-essential nighttime lighting.

These measures are part of a broader strategy aimed at minimising the event’s environmental impact and promoting responsible behaviour among all participants.

A shared commitment

The organisation reminds everyone that the sustainability of the event depends not only on the measures implemented, but also on the behaviour of runners, supporters and volunteers.

The involvement of all stakeholders is essential to preserve the natural environment in which the race takes place and to ensure that the sporting experience remains compatible with the protection of the territory.

With this approach, FUGA Penyagolosa Trails has established itself as a benchmark in international trail running, demonstrating that it is possible to organise a high-level competition while respecting the mountains that make it possible.

Kailas FUGA becomes the title sponsor of Penyagolosa Trails

The global trail running brand begins its collaboration with the Castellón race, strengthening its presence in Spain and Europe

 

Penyagolosa Trails welcomes Kailas FUGA as the new title sponsor of the event, in an agreement that marks the beginning of a strategic, long-term collaboration. This alliance enables the Asian company to strengthen its presence in Spain and continue its expansion across Europe, aligning itself with an event that has a strong identity, deep tradition, and recognized sporting prestige such as Penyagolosa Trails.

From today onwards, the official name of the race will be FUGA Penyagolosa Trails.

A prestigious brand in international ultratrail

 

Founded in 2003, Kailas is one of the leading brands in high-quality technical equipment for outdoor activities. Its FUGA line has become a benchmark in technical footwear and apparel for ultradistance runners, developing gear that includes both trail running shoes and hydration packs designed for extreme conditions.

Kailas FUGA has a strong international presence and is involved in top-level competitions such as the Tor des Géants, consolidating its reputation as a professional brand in the world of ultratrail. In addition, the brand already has official athletes in Spain, including José Ángel Jiménez “Canales”, three-time MiM champion, further reinforcing its credibility and its connection with the elite of Spanish trail running.

A further step in the international growth of FUGA Penyagolosa Trails

 

With this new sponsorship, FUGA Penyagolosa Trails continues to strengthen its international profile. In recent years, the race has gained significant recognition within the global trail running calendar, bringing together thousands of runners and establishing itself as one of the most iconic events in Spain.“We are very pleased to welcome Kailas FUGA as the title sponsor of Penyagolosa Trails,” explains Tico Cervera, Race Director.

“We share the same vision of promoting demanding, sustainable trail running that respects the natural environment. This agreement will allow us to continue growing and attract an increasingly international community.” “We are very excited to partner with Penyagolosa Trails, an event that combines history, challenge, and adventure. We decided to sponsor this race because we fully trust the experience and professionalism of the organizers, who have been delivering the event for more than twenty-five years. We are confident that this collaboration will be an excellent opportunity for mutual growth,” adds Jacky Yao, Director of FUGA International Event Partnerships.

Without losing its roots, FUGA Penyagolosa Trails continues to evolve as a world-class benchmark event, combining territory, tradition and technical excellence through strong partnerships that look to the future.

The winning numbers for the Penyagolosa Trails 2026 bib lottery are now known

Following the lottery held today at the Castellón Provincial Council, MiM bibs have been assigned to numbers 2216 to 3715, while all pre-registered runners for the CSP will have a guaranteed spot

 

After the lottery held today at the Castellón Provincial Council, MiM bibs have been assigned to numbers 2216 to 3715, while all pre-registered runners for the CSP are guaranteed a spot, as the number of entries does not exceed the available slots by more than 20%. With this draw, the official countdown to the next edition begins—an eagerly anticipated moment for runners from all over Spain and beyond.

Runners who have secured a place for either race must complete their registration before December 23 through the Penyagolosa Trails website.

The draw, held at 19:00 at the Castellón Provincial Council, brought together authorities, sponsors and partners who joined us in celebrating this key moment. Among those in attendance were the President of the Castellón Provincial Council, Marta Barrachina; the Director General of Sport, Luis Cervera; and the Provincial Deputy for Sports, Iván Sánchez.

Likewise, representatives from sponsors FACSA, Endavant Villarreal CF, Cajamar, Nutrinovex, and Suunto were also in attendance, along with representatives from several municipalities in the province.

President Marta Barrachina highlighted that “once again, the number of pre-registrations shows the great excitement this event generates among those hoping to take part in the most spectacular sporting event we have in Castellón. A true celebration of trail running.”

She also underscored the unique opportunity Penyagolosa Trails offers to “showcase our territory as an outstanding sporting stage.” Once again, the event will shine a spotlight on the province’s heritage through the municipalities along the route—“the essence of our history and a key part of what gives meaning to Penyagolosa Trails.” In addition to the heritage, she highlighted the people: the involvement of the towns, sports clubs, and residents of Castellón. “They are an essential part of Penyagolosa Trails,” she emphasised.

Penyagolosa Trails: A commitment to solidarity

During the event, a cheque for €1,766 was presented to the Spanish Association Against Cancer (AECC), corresponding to €1 donated for each finisher of both races in the 2025 edition—an example of Penyagolosa Trails’ ongoing social commitment.

In addition, those who were not awarded a spot in the lottery still have the chance to participate in the MiM through solidarity bibs, available on the ASOLECAS and Conquistando Escalones websites. These bibs guarantee entry even for those not selected in the draw.

With the draw complete, the countdown begins: months of training and preparation that will lead into one of Spain’s most iconic trail races, where every kilometre once again highlights the spirit of resilience, solidarity and passion that make Penyagolosa Trails truly unique.

4,773 runners pre-register for Penyagolosa Trails 2026 with representation from multiple countries

The bib lottery will take place on Friday, December 12th at 7:00 p.m. at the Castellón Provincial Council.

 

The pre-registration period for the upcoming edition of Penyagolosa Trails has concluded with a total of 4,773 runners from 48 provinces and 40 nationalities, once again confirming the international scope of the Castellón event.

The high demand was evident in how quickly the first 1,000 pre-registrations were reached — in less than 10 hours. A milestone that highlights the strong anticipation the race generates among both national and international runners.

The MiM is once again the race with the highest number of applications, with a total of 4,081 pre-registrations for the flagship event and 692 for the CSP. Among all these participants, 1,500 bibs will be allocated for the MiM through a lottery. In the case of the CSP, the number of pre-registrations does not exceed the available slots by more than 20%, so no lottery will be required.

“Every year, thanks to all the runners who pre-register, we reach extraordinary numbers that remind us how special Penyagolosa Trails really is. It’s a pride to see how the passion for this race brings together participants from all over the world and motivates us to keep improving each edition,” says Tico Cervera, race director.

These comments were echoed by the President of the Castellón Provincial Council, Marta Barrachina, who highlighted that “once again, the number of runners who want to be part of Penyagolosa Trails shows that it is a unique sporting event, firmly established in the trail running calendar.” She added, “In just over four months, the province of Castellón will once again become the perfect sporting stage as we host a new edition of this event, which will combine the effort and determination of the athletes with the natural beauty and richness of our region.”

On Friday, December 12th, the reception hall of the Castellón Provincial Council will host the highly anticipated bib lottery — a key moment for the entire trail-running community. The event will be streamed live on the Castellón Provincial Council’s YouTube channel and on the Ingrávidos Twitch channel.

During the event, products from some of the race’s sponsors will be raffled as attendees share the excitement of a unique moment marking the beginning of months of training, motivation, and challenges ahead on the road to Penyagolosa Trails 2026.

Key dates

  • Bib lottery: December 12th, 2025 at 19:00

  • Deadline to complete registration: December 23rd

Penyagolosa Trails will continue its social commitment in the 2026 edition

Dorsal-solidario_Conquistando-Escalones

The event will continue promoting sport and solidarity through donations to the AECC and the charity bib initiative

 

Penyagolosa Trails reaffirms, once again, its commitment to society and the region through its solidarity initiatives. With pre-registrations opening last week, the 2026 edition begins its journey to bring the community together once more around sport and solidarity.

For several editions now, Penyagolosa Trails has maintained two main avenues of social support:

  • A donation of €1 for every MiM and CSP finisher to the Asociación Española Contra el Cáncer (AECC), contributing to support programmes for patients and families.

  • The charity bib campaign, through which the organisation donates MiM bibs free of charge to provincial non-profit associations, which then manage their sale and allocate all funds directly to their projects and causes.

A commitment beyond the donation

Since 2016, Penyagolosa Trails has maintained a strong partnership with the Asociación Española Contra el Cáncer (AECC), a collaboration that goes beyond financial contributions and is reflected every year in joint support actions.

In addition to receiving €1 for every runner who finishes the race—funds allocated to research projects and support programmes for patients and families—the AECC actively participates as a volunteer organisation during the event. Their involvement in organisational tasks helps turn each edition into a space for awareness, support and visibility in the fight against cancer.

Charity bibs

Charity bibs offer an alternative way to run the MiM for those who did not obtain a slot in the lottery. They allow participation through a donation to a social organisation from the province of Castellón.

These charity bibs will be available after the 12 December lottery on the websites of the Asociación contra la Leucemia de Castellón (ASOLECAS) and the Asociación Conquistando Escalones, both of which are collaborating in the 2026 edition. The management of these bibs is carried out exclusively by the two associations, and they provide guaranteed access to the race even when registrations are full.

The Asociación contra la Leucemia de Castellón (ASOLECAS) works to improve the quality of life of patients with leukaemia and other haematological diseases, as well as their families, offering psychological, social and material support throughout treatment, in addition to promoting bone marrow donation.

The Asociación Conquistando Escalones brings together people affected by LGMDD2 muscular dystrophy, a rare degenerative disease that offers natural protection against HIV. This year, they launched the campaign “10 Years, 10 Steps,” aimed at funding research to improve the lives of patients.

Dorsal-solidario_Conquistando-Escalones Dorsal solidario_ASOLECAS

Sport, community, and solidarity

With these actions, Penyagolosa Trails continues to strengthen its position as an event that goes beyond competition and becomes a driving force for solidarity. Every kilometre run by its participants translates into support for social causes, reinforcing the event’s identity as a platform for solidarity within the province.

Pre-registrations for Penyagolosa Trails 2026 will remain open until 8 December and can be completed through the event’s official website.

Penyagolosa Trails 2026 Opens Pre-Registration

Apertura preinscripciones

The pre-registration period is now open from today until 8 December 2025 at 19:00.

The wait is over. Pre-registration for Penyagolosa Trails 2026 is now open. The event will celebrate the 27th edition of the MiM and the 14th edition of the CSP on 18 April 2026, bringing together national and international runners in the Penyagolosa Natural Park in Castellón.

Pre-registration is available exclusively through the official website: www.penyagolosatrails.com. Places are limited, and race bibs will be allocated through a lottery to be held on 12 December at the Reception Hall of the Castelló Provincial Council. The event will be streamed on the YouTube channel of the Castelló Provincial Council and on the Ingrávidos Twitch channel.

Courses

  • MiM: 60 km with 3,300 metres of positive elevation gain up to the Sant Joan de Penyagolosa Sanctuary (1,280 m), combining technical and fast sections that test both endurance and race strategy.
  • CSP: 106 km with 5,600 metres of positive elevation gain to the same sanctuary, featuring a demanding route that requires strong physical and mental management and careful pacing.

 

Apertura preinscripciones

 

Both courses cross some of the most iconic landscapes of Castellón’s inland region, from the Mediterranean coastline to Penyagolosa, a symbol of the province. The involvement and support of the towns along the route have become one of the event’s hallmarks, helping consolidate Penyagolosa Trails as a key fixture on the international trail running calendar.

Key Dates

  • Pre-registration: 20 November – 8 December 2025
    Lottery: 12 December 2025
    Deadline for selected runners to complete their registration: 23 December 2025

Commitment to the Territory and Sustainability

Once again, Penyagolosa Trails reaffirms its commitment to sustainability and to the cultural and human heritage of Castellón’s inland region, engaging the municipalities along the route and the hundreds of volunteers who contribute to the event’s atmosphere and hospitality.

All updates for the 2026 edition will be announced on the event’s social media channels.

Endavant Esports, the Villarreal CF project, renews its support for ASICS Penyagolosa Trails

NDP Renovación Endavant Esports - ASICS Penyagolosa Trails

The Villarreal CF, through its Endavant Esports program, has once again confirmed the participation of ASICS Penyagolosa Trails within its initiative to promote sports in the province of Castellón.

Since 2017, the race has been part of this project, which supports athletes, clubs, and prominent events in the region. This renewal strengthens the collaboration between both entities and acknowledges the reach of the MiM and CSP races, which showcase Castellón at a national and international level.

Created in 2004, Endavant Esports aims to promote sports in the province by providing resources, training, and visibility to its participants. Over the years, the program has supported numerous athletes, contributing to the development of the sports culture and the promotion of Castellón’s territorial identity.

The continuation of this collaboration will allow joint actions for the dissemination and promotion of trail running, highlighting the significance of the races and the role of sports as a driver of social, cultural, and tourism growth in the province.

ASICS PENYAGOLOSA TRAILS ANNOUNCES DATE FOR ITS NEXT EDITION: APRIL 18, 2026

Gemma Arenas MiM 2024

THE ANNOUNCEMENT COMES ON THE EVE OF THE WORLD’S PREMIER TRAIL RUNNING EVENT IN CHAMONIX, WHERE THE ORGANIZATION WILL BE PRESENT

 

ASICS Penyagolosa Trails will take place on April 18, 2026, bringing together runners from across the globe in its two emblematic races: the MiM, now in its 27th edition with a 60 km course, and the CSP, celebrating its 14th edition with 106 km. Both races follow historic trails and pass through villages in the inland area of Castellón province, reflecting a strong bond with the mountains.

Pre-registrations will open, as usual, in November this year. In the coming weeks, the organization will announce the specific dates and some of the new features of an edition that will continue to strengthen local identity, promote responsible tourism, and uphold the race’s firm commitment to sustainability.

The announcement has been shared on social media through a video featuring Marta Barrachina, President of the Castellón Provincial Council, who underlined the event’s international projection and its role as a showcase for the natural and cultural heritage of the province.

The head of the provincial institution praised ASICS Penyagolosa Trails as “the ultimate expression of sport in our province; it is sport in capital letters.” As Marta Barrachina highlighted, “Penyagolosa Trails is a sporting event that embodies pride of belonging, of our province, and of showcasing our territory as a major sporting stage.”

She also emphasized that the event would not be the same without its people: “Without the involvement of the municipalities, sports and social associations, residents, and organizations, whose contagious energy and dedication make it a truly exceptional experience.” For Marta Barrachina, this well-established event “is an irresistible magnet for athletes, tourists, and visitors who on April 18 will once again feel, live, and enjoy a race that is already part of our DNA, perfectly combining sport and nature, while contributing to the revitalization of the inland areas of our province.”

Thanks to the support of the Castellón Tourism Board, ASICS Penyagolosa Trails will be present in the coming days at the Ultra-Trail Village of UTMB in Chamonix, providing information about the 2026 edition and promoting the scenic appeal of Penyagolosa Natural Park and its surroundings.

Furthermore, to encourage participation and interaction with visitors, the stand will feature activities and tastings of local products, allowing attendees to discover the territory and gastronomy of Castellón. The organization’s presence at this international meeting point reinforces its goal of positioning the province of Castellón as a benchmark in the global trail running scene.