Fortunato and González Victorious at Madrid International Race Walking Grand Prix

The Gold event of the world circuit drew over 12,000 spectators to Madrid's Gran Vía.

Generic image of Madrid's Gran Vía during a popular race, with spectators lining the street.
IA

Generic image of Madrid's Gran Vía during a popular race, with spectators lining the street.

Italian Francesco Fortunato and Mexican Alegna González claimed victory in the fifth edition of the Madrid International Race Walking Grand Prix, held this Sunday on Gran Vía.

The competition, part of the World Athletics Race Walking Tour, gathered more than 12,000 spectators along a one-kilometer certified circuit on the central Madrid street.
In the men's category, Francesco Fortunato won with a time of 39:16. Spain's Paul McGrath finished second (39:24), and Brazil's Caio Bonfim took third place (39:32). Among the Spanish athletes, Diego García Carrera and Álvaro López placed eighth and tenth, respectively.
Fortunato expressed his satisfaction with achieving his victory objective and highlighted his strong current form ahead of the European Championships in Birmingham.
In the women's race, Alegna González dominated, crossing the finish line in 44:03. Peru's Evelyn Inga was second (44:16), and Spain's Aldara Meilán secured third place (44:46), significantly improving her previous personal best.
González noted the race's difficulty due to strong competition and heat but felt mentally strong and pleased to compete on the Gran Vía to showcase her speed, now focusing on the upcoming Central American and Caribbean Games.
The event also paid tribute to Ecuador's Jefferson Pérez, an Olympic and World champion in race walking, who was honored as the event's Ambassador for Latin America.

"I am very honored to have experienced this tribute and it is a great pride to be the Ambassador of Madrid Marcha for Latin America."

Jefferson Pérez · Ambassador of Madrid Marcha for Latin America
The awards ceremony took place near the Cine Capitol, attended by representatives from the Community of Madrid, the Madrid City Council, the Royal Spanish Athletics Federation, and World Athletics.