55 at the Stramilano. Runners beat the rain

Despite the rain, over 55 thousand people gathered yesterday morning between Piazza Duomo and Piazza Castello to take part in the 52nd edition of the Stramilano. And there was a record number of participants in the half marathon with over 9 thousand runners at the start, at 8.30, starting from the Castle and arriving at the same location. From Piazza Duomo an hour later the classic non-competitive Stramilano started, a 10 kilometre route, with the traditional shot of the historic Cannon of the Horse Artillery Regiment fired by the actress Chiara Gensini, godmother of Stramilano 2025, together with the Sports Councillor of the Municipality of Milan Martina Riva.

As a corollary to the sports festival, the show of the Army Fanfare, the Carabinieri and the Command of the Air Squad-1st Air Region of the Air Force contributed to making the moment of departure even more suggestive with the national anthem. Last to leave, but not in importance, the 10 thousand little runners for the “Stramilanina“, the 5 kilometer race. For all the arrival at the Arco della Pace that welcomed the runners, offering refreshments and moments of entertainment. Many foreigners, from Europe and beyond, who did not want to miss this true celebration of the city, which not even the rain spoiled.

Born as an amateur running event way back in 1972, it has become the most iconic of Milanese races, arriving with spring and invading the streets of the center with a very long colorful snake. Along the sides of the road there are spaces for runners to refresh themselves but also for the entertainment of the curious and passers-by, with music at full volume and acrobatic shows. Hundreds of people, even those not running, showed up along the route with placards to cheer on the runners, in a true show within a show.

Without forgetting solidarity: Banca Akros (Banco BPM Group), in collaboration with the Fondazione Banca Popolare di Milano, has launched an initiative for the occasion to finance the projects of two Milanese associations active in the social field and in supporting people with disabilities, Facciavista Ets and the Sorriso Adv Association.

Now we are already looking ahead: the appointment for the tens of thousands of Milanese runners is for November 30, when the third edition of “Stramilano Sottozero” will be held, which has now become a regular event for thousands of Milanese and non-Milanese. For those who already want to mark the Stramilano 2026 on their calendar, the 53rd edition will be held on May 3.

F.Lu.