RunFastAbout the race
The NN Marathon Rotterdam is the Netherlands' most popular marathon, held in April, and is known for fast times. Runner's World once ranked it among the ten best marathons in the world.
History
The first Rotterdam Marathon was staged in 1981, and since the third edition in 1984 it has been held every April. The world best time was set on its course by Carlos Lopes in 1985 and later by Belayneh Dinsamo, and several of the fastest marathoners in history ran their personal bests there. World Athletics awarded it Gold Label status in 2012 after the race could be followed live on television in at least five countries. In 2007 the race was stopped after three and a half hours because of exceptionally hot weather. The 2020 edition was postponed to 2021 during the pandemic, with entries carried over.
The course
The route is flat, which is the main reason it is so quick. Check the organiser's course page, labelled Parcours, for the exact route and turns.
The 2027 edition
The organiser lists the 46th edition for Sunday 11 April 2027. A programme of distances for young and old is staged on Saturday 10 April 2027, and the international marathon runs on the Sunday. The same weekend also hosts the NK Marathon, a Kwart Marathon and a City Run.
Entry basics
For the coming edition, the organiser is using a free pre-registration system. It has also said that it is taking measures with the city to open the event to more local residents. Time limits and eligibility rules appear in the regulations.
Where to watch
The event pages include a section on getting there and on accessibility, and the organiser runs a sport expo for the weekend. The finish and start area in the city centre is the main gathering point for spectators; consult the official course map for roadside spots.
Weather
April in Rotterdam is a changeable spring month. Cool mornings and a mix of sun and showers are typical, and wind can be noticeable in this open, flat port city. Warm spells do occasionally occur, as the 2007 race showed.