Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
The WMRA Mountain Running World Cup shifts to Europe for its next races on the island of La Palma in the Canary Islands, hosting two events on Thursday and Saturday along volcanic ridgelines and lava fields. This marks the first time La Palma is hosting World Cup events.
Thursday's uphill race starts at 5:00pm local time at the Port of Tazacorte and covers 7.3 kilometres with an ascent of 1164 metres, finishing at the Forest Tower at El Time. The course follows the GR 131 hiking trail and passes landmarks such as the El Time Viewpoint, the Hungarian House, and the Viewpoint of Piedra del Guanche.
On Saturday, a 25-kilometre long-distance race begins at 7:30am at the Faro de Fuencaliente lighthouse, following the Ruta de los Volcanes before finishing at Refugio de El Pilar. The route challenges runners with a sustained 17-kilometre climb of 1800 metres before descending eight kilometres to the finish.
The women's lineup features Kenyan athletes Joyce Muthoni Njeru, recent winner in China who will compete in both races, and Ruth Mwihaki Gitonga, who won the season opener. Philaries Jeruto Kisang also starts her 2026 World Cup season in La Palma. Italy’s Camilla Magliano leads the women’s World Cup rankings and aims to build on her strong performances.