Cagliari, September 11th, 2025 – Whether chasing victory, pushing personal limits, or simply enjoying a nighttime stroll through the heart of the city, more than a thousand participants are expected in Cagliari for the 11th edition of the Cagliari Urban Trail, a unique nighttime running event that winds through the historic quarters of the Sardinian capital – from Stampace to Castello, Marina to Villanova. The event kicks off on Saturday, September 13th at 9:30 PM.
Runners or walkers, competitors or casual participants – everyone is welcome. The city lights, headlamps, and bright yellow shirts will once again transform the streets into a glowing trail. This year, the event will be back in Piazza Garibaldi, where it started and finished in 2018: more than 1,000 enthusiasts, including athletes and walkers, are expected. Two routes are available: a 10 km race for runners (with a checkpoint in Piazza Garibaldi) and a 6 km walk for those taking a more relaxed pace.
Top names on the starting line
Who will succeed Ismaele Deidda and Enrica Pintor, winners of the last edition? Among the top male contenders is hometown favorite Maurizio Cocco of Cagliari Atletica Leggera. Also returning is Oualid Abdelkader, a Moroccan-born athlete living in Cagliari, who claimed victory in 2018, 2019 and 2022 (post-pandemic restart) editions.
On the women’s side, all eyes are on reigning champion Enrica Pintor (Isolarun), who last year dethroned 2023 winner Federica Frongia (third place). Benedetta Ferri, also of Cagliari Atletica Leggera, is another strong contender.
A living legend: Marco Olmo
Adding prestige to this year’s event is the presence of Marco Olmo, 77, from Alba in northern Italy – a true legend of ultramarathon running and winner of numerous international races. On the eve of the race, Friday, September 12th at 7:00 PM, Olmo will meet with athletes and the public at Foniù store (Via Sonnino 88) to share stories from his incredible career, including footage from his experiences at the Marathon des Sables and Ultra-Trail du Mont Blanc.
Sport, culture, and inclusion
The Cagliari Urban Trail is more than just a race – it´s a celebration of sport, culture, and tourism, open to all ages and fitness levels. Whether seasoned runner or outdoor enthusiast, participants can challenge themselves along a scenic urban course. All finishers in the competitive race will receive a commemorative medal.
This year, once again, the Urban Trail serves as a platform for the campaign “A City Without Barriers,” promoting accessibility and the elimination of architectural obstacles in Cagliari. Among the participants will be a delegation of paralympic athletes from RunChallenge, led by Gabi Oliveira.
Organization and schedule
Organized by GLEsport, the Urban Trail originated in Lisbon and has gained popularity across Europe. The Cagliari edition is Italy’s only official Urban Trail event, held under the auspices of UISP Cagliari APS and with the support and sponsorship of the Municipality of Cagliari.
On Saturday, September 13, race kits and bibs can be collected between 10:00 AM and 7:00 PM at Piazza Garibaldi square. The event heats up in the evening, with journalist Valentina Caruso hosting the presentation and DJ Simon Luca providing live entertainment. Throughout the day, the Health Village will feature partner booths, games, and fitness assessments, including sports quizzes and a podiatric analysis platform at the ToSmile stand, where visitors can also win an orthodontic consultation. The Leo Club Cagliari will be present with sweets and a charity fundraiser in support of the city’s underprivileged communities.
Official Partners
This year’s official partners include Despar Sardegna, Foniù, and USE, with support from Playcar, Wall Streat, Deriu Sport, Doppio Malto (Sardinian craft brewery), The Runaway, and To Smile.
Event Schedule
Friday, September 12
7:00 PM – Talk with Marco Olmo at Foniù Store, Via Sonnino 88
Saturday, September 13
10:00 AM – 7:00 PM – Bib and race kit pickup + last-minute registration at Piazza Garibaldi square
10:30 AM – Opening of Health Village
7:30 PM – Event presentation with Valentina Caruso
8:00 PM – DJ set by Simon Luca & baggage drop opens
8:45 PM – Choreographed performance by Gabi Oliveira and her students
9:00 PM – Runners line up for check-in
9:10 PM – Light choreography for both runners and walkers
9:30 PM – Start of Urban Trail Race (10 km)
9:35 PM – Start of Urban Trail Walk (6 km)
10:10–10:45 PM – Arrival of participants
