On the last day of 2025, Madrid will once again host a major sporting event. The San Silvestre Vallecana—the traditional 10-kilometer race—will transform everyday life in the capital. From the early morning of December 31, traffic will be restricted on key streets, forcing drivers to find alternative routes. Organizers expect more than 40,000 participants, which will inevitably affect both traffic and public transportation.
This year, the route will connect the north and southeast of the city, covering its busiest districts. Hundreds of traffic service and police personnel will work to ensure safety and redirect vehicles. For many residents and visitors, this will be a real challenge: familiar routes will be unavailable and the city center will become a massive pedestrian zone.
Main road closures
From early morning, the central corridor of the race will be closed—from avenida de Concha Espina to the Vallecas stadium. Streets that will be entirely off-limits include: Concha Espina, Serrano, plaza de la República Argentina, plaza de la Independencia, Alcalá, Cibeles, paseo del Prado, plaza del Emperador Carlos V, and the avenues Ciudad de Barcelona and Albufera.
In the starting area near Santiago Bernabéu, restrictions will come into effect as early as December 30 at 3:00 pm. Traffic will be closed on Rafael Salgado, Padre Damián, the side section of paseo de la Castellana, as well as on paseo de La Habana and neighboring side streets. In the finish area in Vallecas, restrictions will affect Candilejas, Payaso Fofó, Arroyo del Olivar, Javier de Miguel, Puerto del Monasterio, and Sierra del Cadí. Traffic here may be restricted until January 2.
Changes in public transport
City officials recommend leaving private cars at home and using the metro. On race day, metro service will be increased, especially on lines passing through the start and finish areas. The nearest stations to the start are Santiago Bernabéu and Cuzco on line 10, while the closest to the finish are Buenos Aires and Portazgo on line 1. For those who still choose to drive, it’s advised to use the M-30 and M-40 ring roads to bypass the city center.
Bus service will also undergo major changes. From 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm, 56 routes will alter their usual paths. These include lines 1, 2, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 14, 15, 16, 19, 20, 21, 24, 26, 27, 28, 32, 34, 37, 43, 45, 51, 52, 53, 54, 56, 57, 58, 59, 61, 74, 85, 86, 102, 103, 111, 113, 120, 136, 141, 144, 146, 148, 150, 152, 156, 310, 001, C03, C1, C2, E1 and the airport express. Some Bicimad city bike stations, such as those at Serrano and Plaza de la República Argentina, will be temporarily closed.
Event logistics
This year marks the 61st running of the San Silvestre Vallecana. The race is traditionally divided into two parts: the mass event and the international elite race. The first starts in waves from 16:50 to 18:20, while professional athletes will take to the course at 19:55. Both routes pass through city streets and finish in Vallecas.
Special corridors will be set up for emergency services and residents with garages in the restricted zone. However, organizers strongly advise everyone to check the restriction map and schedule in advance to avoid any unpleasant surprises. During the days leading up to and on the day of the race, traffic in the city center will be heavily restricted and usual routes will be unavailable.
Celebration in the Streets
San Silvestre Vallecana is not just a sporting event, but a true citywide celebration. Thousands of runners in vibrant costumes, music, and cheering fans lining the course create a unique atmosphere. For many Madrid residents, running the race or cheering on the athletes has become a cherished New Year’s tradition.
Authorities remind everyone that despite the inconveniences caused by road closures, the safety and comfort of participants and spectators remain the top priority. Extra patrols will be on duty throughout the day, and up-to-date information about closures and transport changes will be posted regularly on the city’s official channels. Residents and visitors to Madrid are encouraged to plan their routes in advance and be prepared for temporary challenges.
