This is how we experienced the On Squad Race in Barcelona: a unique experience with ON
There are events remembered for their results. And others remembered for everything that happens around them.
The On Squad Race in Barcelona clearly belongs to the latter group.
A few days ago, we were lucky enough to experience something very special with ON, one of the fastest-growing brands in the running world. It was a trip that allowed us to learn about some of the new products the Swiss company is preparing for 2027, share moments with runners and professionals from different countries, and, of course, enjoy a unique competition in one of Barcelona's most spectacular locations.
Because yes, there was a race. But the reality is that this experience was much more than that.
First hours in Barcelona and a very special visit
As soon as we arrived in Barcelona, we dropped off our bags and headed to the ON showroom.
And that's when the adventure truly began.
Being able to enter that space and discover some of the new products the brand will launch in 2027 was absolutely amazing. We spent a good while with the ON team, who showed us some of the products they are working on and explained what the entire experience awaiting us over the next few hours would be like.
One of those moments that reminds you why we are so passionate about this sport and everything surrounding the world of running.
A surprise waiting in the room
Afterward, we returned to the hotel to check in and, honestly, we did not expect what we found when we opened the room door.
On the bed, all the equipment prepared for the competition was waiting for us.
The official On Squad Race shirt, ON shorts, socks, cap, and one of the brand's most anticipated models: the new On Cloudmonster 3, which would be our companions during the race.
It's those small details that make you feel part of something special.
Before the competition, we still had time to enjoy the atmosphere of Barcelona, walk around the city, and start feeling those nerves that always appear when you know a race is approaching.
48 teams and an international competition
Hours later, the official briefing took place.
There, we learned all the details of the event and discovered how the teams would be organized.
In total, 48 teams made up of four runners, with representatives from different companies and countries. A very fun format that made the competition even more special.
And there was a prize that ensured excitement from the very first moment.
The winning teams would secure a spot to compete in the next edition of the On Squad Race in Los Angeles.
Running at Montjuïc Castle, a setting difficult to forget
Some races are special because of their route.
And this, without a doubt, is one of them.
The competition was held at Montjuïc Castle, one of Barcelona's most emblematic places with spectacular views over the entire city.
The setting alone made it worth being there.
The dynamic was simple, but tremendously exciting. 400-meter relays where each runner had to complete their leg before passing the baton to the next teammate.
Tension, nerves, and the desire to do well were present throughout the day. But, above all, a good atmosphere prevailed and the feeling of sharing something very special with people from different parts of the world.
Much more than a race
If there's one moment that particularly surprised us, it was everything that came afterward.
Because when we crossed the finish line, one of the most interesting parts of the experience was yet to come.
The organizers had prepared a spectacular recovery zone for all participants to recuperate after their effort.
And absolutely nothing was missing.
There was food and drink to refuel, live music with DJs, different rest areas, and muscle recovery devices that delighted many runners.
One of the most talked-about moments of the afternoon was the original omelet burgers, which became one of the event's great gastronomic hits.
Additionally, we were able to try different muscle massage and pressotherapy systems designed to aid recovery after the competition.
The feeling was that of being at a true running festival.
A spectacular final and a well-deserved prize for France
With our legs somewhat recovered, it was time to enjoy the grand final.
The atmosphere was incredible. Runners, organization, and brands cheering on the finalist teams in a final race that was lived with great intensity.
Finally, it was the French team that secured the victory, thus earning a spot to represent the competition in the next edition in Los Angeles.
And although we all wanted to win, the reality is that by then, the general feeling was different.
That of having lived an unforgettable experience.
The perfect grand finale
The adventure ended the next day with breakfast at the hotel and the opportunity to discuss everything experienced over the past few hours.
Because in the end, beyond the kilometers or the classification, what you truly take away from these types of events are the people, the conversations, and all those moments that don't appear in the official results.
According to our expert Alberto Navarro…
“What I like most about ON is their way of understanding running and the experiences surrounding the sport. The On Squad Race was much more than a competition. It was an opportunity to share moments with runners from different countries, discover where the brand is heading, and enjoy a spectacular atmosphere. These are the kinds of experiences that remind you why we are so passionate about this sport.”
An experience we will not forget
The On Squad Race in Barcelona allowed us to get a closer look at ON's philosophy, discover some of the new products we will see in the coming years, and enjoy a different competition in one of the city's most beautiful settings.
But, above all, it left us with something we always look for when we travel to these types of events.
Stories to tell.
And a strong desire to experience the next one.
Frequently asked questions
What is the On Squad Race?
It is a team competition organized by ON that brings together runners from different countries in a relay format and experiences around running.
Where was the Barcelona edition held?
The race took place at Montjuïc Castle, one of the city's most emblematic locations.
Which shoes were used for the race?
Participants received the new On Cloudmonster 3 as part of the official event equipment.
What prize did the winning teams receive?
The opportunity to participate in the next edition of the On Squad Race, which will be held in Los Angeles.
What new products did ON present during the experience?
In addition to the competition, attendees had access to an exclusive showroom where they could learn about some of the products the brand will launch in 2027.
