The Cristo Half Marathon registrations are almost sold out – more than 70% of the 1,500 spots have already been filled for the 10km and 21km races, taking place on October 19th. The 5th edition breaks internationalization records: 10% of registrants are foreigners, coming from 17 countries, including newcomers such as South Africa, Germany, Australia, Chile, France, and Norway (the list is completed by Argentina, Belgium, Colombia, United States, Netherlands, Peru, and United Kingdom).

"We know this is no magic. Rio has its natural charms, but that alone isn't enough. We can see how the work being done by the tourism, entertainment, and sports industries – in my case – has consolidated the arrival and return of many foreign tourists," says Pedro Monteiro, CEO of Effect Sport, the event organizer.

Rio thus consolidates its appeal as a sports tourism destination – in 2023, it was the most searched city by Brazilians and the second among foreigners, according to Embratur.

The routes explore the beauties of Tijuca National Park, passing through Vista Chinesa, Mesa do Imperador, and Paineiras, finishing at the feet of Christ. Part of the registration revenue goes to social projects of the Cristo Sustentável Consortium.