Over 7,000 runners faced 34 obstacles and wild weather at the 2025 Rotterdam Harbour Run, marking the biggest edition yet.

Over 7,000 runners brave rain at Rotterdam Harbour Run

ROTTERDAM, 5 October 2025 – More than 7,000 runners took on the twelfth edition of the Rotterdam Harbour Run, braving rain, wind and 34 obstacles through the city’s working port.

 

A record-breaking turnout

The twelfth Rotterdam Harbour Run drew its largest crowd yet, with over 7,000 participants tackling the industrial terrain of Europe’s busiest harbour. Despite the wet conditions, the mood was upbeat as waves of runners made their way through container yards and along the docks, cheered on by volunteers and spectators.

 

A gritty challenge through the port

Participants could choose between a 6 km and a 10 km route, each filled with tough obstacles – from climbing towering container stacks and crawling beneath trucks to balancing on slick ramps. In total, 34 obstacles tested the strength, teamwork and determination of everyone taking part.

The course showcased Rotterdam’s maritime character, offering rare glimpses inside restricted port areas that form the beating heart of the city’s economy.

 

 

“Stoer, rauw, samen” – the spirit of Rotterdam

Reactions from the course were overwhelmingly positive. “The rain gives it a raw edge that fits perfectly with the port,” said one runner, soaked but smiling at the finish. Another added: “The Harbour Run is so typically Rotterdam – tough, gritty, together. This isn’t just a run; it’s an experience.”

 

Looking ahead to 2026

With a record number of participants and a wave of positive feedback, the organisers are already preparing for next year’s edition. The Rotterdam Harbour Run 2026 will take place on Sunday, 4 October 2026.

Pre-registration is now open on the official website for those eager to secure a spot: https://harbourrun.nl/.

 

About the Rotterdam Harbour Run

Launched in 2013, the Rotterdam Harbour Run transforms the city’s port into a sprawling obstacle course that celebrates both endurance and community. The event welcomes participants of all fitness levels and provides a rare chance to experience the working harbour up close.

 

 

Support Rotterdam’s biggest English-language platform!

Since 2015, RotterdamStyle.com has helped thousands of expats and locals stay informed, discover events, and feel at home in Rotterdam—all in English, and always free to access. Our work bridges the language gap, but ad revenue alone isn’t enough to keep things running.

If you value having easy access to local news and stories, please consider supporting us above. With your help, we hope to keep RotterdamStyle.com online for many more years—maybe even ad-free one day!

Spotted a mistake or outdated information? Let us know. Your feedback and support keep us growing. Thank you for being part of the community!

You might also like

How about a live show tonight?

Special events happening soon

How about a live show tonight?

Special events happening soon

About RotterdamStyle

RotterdamStyle.com is the largest and most popular online platform for expats and long stay tourists in Rotterdam.

Business inquiries

We're always open to receiving press releases or business inquiries. Just send us an email at hello [@] rotterdamstyle.com.

Acquire us

We're looking to get acquired by a startup or enterprise with deep pockets. Go ahead, make us an offer we can't refuse. ;-)