IBIZA – Ibiza will have no fewer than nine sporting events in 2024 that have been officially designated as ‘Touristic Interest’. This makes the island the scene of sporting highlights. So Ibiza is not only the ideal destination for partygoers and nature lovers but also for sports enthusiasts.
Sports enthusiasts are realising how ideal Ibiza is as a sports destination all year round. The enchanting island atmosphere, the pleasant climate and the natural beauty contribute to this. That is why more and more tourists choose to combine their love for sports with a visit to this beautiful island. Special sporting events add an extra dimension to their holiday experience. Moreover, they bring them into contact with nature and the beautiful beaches around the island.
15,000 Athletes to Ibiza in 2023
Throughout 2023, it is estimated that as many as 15,000 athletes will pack their bags to enjoy the island by participating in various sporting events. These events therefore have a significant economic and social impact on Ibiza. Here are the nine sporting events you can choose from for your 2024 vacation:
1. Santa Eulària Ibiza Marathon – April 13, 2024
The Santa Eulària Ibiza Marathon attracts runners from more than 50 nationalities every year. The event offers three distances: the marathon, 22 km, and 12 km. This allows runners of all levels to participate and enjoy an unforgettable experience that combines sport and tourism. This year the event will take place on April 13.
2. Sailing competition Ruta de la Sal
For sailing enthusiasts, the Ruta de la Sal is an event not to be missed. It is the largest open sea sailing race in the Mediterranean, starting from Barcelona and ending in Ibiza. During the Easter holidays (this year from March 28 to 30), hundreds of participants from all over the world travel to Ibiza to experience this unique sporting experience, often with friends or family on board.
3. Vuelta a Ibiza MTB
The Vuelta a Ibiza MTB will take place on April 7, 8 and 9, a sporting event that attracts mountain bike enthusiasts. It offers cyclists the chance to explore Ibiza on two wheels. In the latest edition even the three-time world road champion, Óscar Freire, rode along with his son Marcos.
4. Ibiza Media Marathon
Taking place on April 20, the Ibiza Media Marathon will take participants through scenic locations in the municipality of Sant Josep de sa Talaia, such as the villages of Sant Jordi, Sa Caleta, and Cala Jondal. Athletes from 31 countries come to Ibiza to take part in this competition in an ideal climate and a festive atmosphere.
5. Vuelta Cicloturista a Ibiza Campagnolo
The Vuelta Cicloturista a Ibiza Campagnolo is the only 60-kilometre stage race in Spain that perfectly combines touring cycling with elements of competition. In the last edition, the twentieth, more than 500 cyclists took part, including famous cyclists such as Alberto Contador and Alejandro Valverde. This year this race will take place on October 13.
6. Ibiza Trail Marathon
The Ibiza Trail Marathon has established itself as a leading trail running competition in Spain. It offers different XL distances: Starter, Medium, and Marathon. These routes vary in elevation, technical sections, and accessible paths, and combine sport with music, culture, and gastronomy as part of the ‘Ibiza Marathon Festival’. This year you can participate on October 28.
7. Ibiza Half Triathlon
The Ibiza Half Triathlon on October 27 is ideal to do with family or friends and consists of 2 km swimming, 90 km cycling and 21 km running. Although this race is traditionally the last race of the Spanish Long Distance Triathlon Cup season, more and more triathlon enthusiasts are taking on this wonderful challenge.
8. 3 days of Trail
During the winter period, on November 29, 30, and December 1, you can participate in the ‘3 days of Trail‘, an event that brings together runners of all levels. This three-day event offers six different routes, with the first taking you through the walled streets of Dalt Vila in the centre of Ibiza Town at night. The following days you will explore wild and enchanting places on the island, through Mediterranean forests and with breathtaking views of the coast and the imposing island of Es Vedrà.
9. 10K Ibiza-Platja d’en Bossa
The 10K Ibiza-Platja d’en Bossa will be held on January 28 and is an athletics competition that is part of the World Athletics calendar, with participants from home and abroad. The course is remarkably fast, with 10 kilometres of straights along the sea, with extraordinary tourist spots such as Platja d’en Bossa and the ses Salines Natural Park.
Professional Triathletes Organisation (PTO) returns to Ibiza
In addition to celebrating these nine sporting events with touristic interest, Ibiza will once again host an unforgettable triathlon weekend. This only competition in Spain of the PTO Professional Triathletes Organisation circuit will be held on September 28 and 29, 2024. It offers triathlon enthusiasts the opportunity to participate in one of the most mediagenic events in our country. Consequently, the whole triathlon world will be watching Ibiza. The world’s best athletes take part in a race where amateurs can also participate in different age groups. This further establishes the island of Ibiza as a leading location for triathlon sport worldwide, thanks to the efforts of the Consell Insular de Ibiza, in collaboration with PTO and the Spanish Triathlon Federation.
Also read: Why the Valencia Half Marathon is one of the best in the world
