Porto Half Marathon heat-related medical emergencies

During the Porto Half Marathon, temperatures approaching 30 degrees Celsius led to multiple cases of exhaustion, dehydration, and fainting among participants. Two runners were admitted to intensive care at São João Hospital, and a female runner sustained minor injuries after being struck by a Red Cross motorcycle during the emergency response.

Organizers, Run Porto, defended their safety protocols, describing the medical response as ‘exemplary’ and stating that the deployment of 76 medical personnel and approximately 15 ambulances helped prevent more severe consequences. While 90,000 bottles of water were distributed, officials attributed the incidents to heatstroke. Ten athletes required hospital care, with five admitted to São João and Santo António hospitals; most are reportedly making positive progress.

In response to the medical emergencies, organizers have announced several changes for the 2027 edition. These include moving the start time from 9:00 AM to 8:00 AM, reducing the number of registrations to prevent overcrowding, increasing water stations, and adjusting the route to incorporate more shaded areas along the Douro River.