Around 60 bodybuilders to compete in Marbella’s first Rafael Vera National Trophy

Marbella will become one of Spain’s bodybuilding hotspots this Saturday, 24 October, as the Palacio de Congresos Adolfo Suárez hosts the first edition of the Rafael Vera National Trophy – City of Marbella. Around 60 athletes from different parts of Spain are expected to take part in a competition that aims to establish itself as a regular fixture on the city’s sporting calendar.

Rafael Vera Trophy schedule in Marbella

The day will begin at 9:00 am with the official weigh-in, while the competition itself is scheduled to run from 11:00 am to 2:30 pm.

Athletes will compete across nine different categories, followed by the overall championship.

The event will also distribute more than €1,000 in prize money.

Tickets cost just €5

One of the main attractions for spectators is the low admission price.

Tickets are priced at €5, making the event an affordable opportunity to watch a national-level bodybuilding competition in Marbella.

The Palacio de Congresos also lists a €5 companion wristband that provides backstage access.

A competition paying tribute to Rafael Vera

The event is being held under the slogan “Tribute to a Legend” and is named after one of the most successful athletes associated with Marbella.

Rafael Vera is a three-time world champion, six-time European champion, Spanish champion and Arnold Classic Europe winner. He also became the only Spanish bodybuilder to win the Mr. Olympia USA title in the Masters category.

A major figure in Marbella’s sporting history

Vera’s connection with Marbella goes far beyond his international titles.

He is an honorary citizen of the city and has also been recognised locally for his contribution to sport and bodybuilding.

A municipal sports centre in Marbella has carried his name since 2017.

Rafael and Ricardo Vera behind the first edition

The competition is organised by Rafael and Ricardo Vera, linked to Gimnasio Halcón, together with the Spanish Bodybuilding and Fitness Association (AEFF) and with the support of Marbella Town Hall.

The organisers hope this first edition will become the starting point for a recurring event that grows in both participation and national profile in the coming years.

Marbella strengthens its sports tourism calendar

The arrival of competitors, coaches, relatives and bodybuilding fans from across Spain adds another event to Marbella’s year-round sports programme.

The city has increasingly used sporting competitions as a way to diversify its tourism offer beyond the summer months and attract visitors throughout the year.

Everything you need to know

Date: Saturday 24 October 2026
Venue: Palacio de Congresos Adolfo Suárez, Marbella
Weigh-in: 9:00 am
Competition: 11:00 am to 2:30 pm
Participants: around 60 bodybuilders
Categories: nine plus the overall championship
Prize money: more than €1,000
Admission: €5

With its first edition, Marbella adds a new event to its sporting calendar while paying tribute to one of the most decorated bodybuilders connected with the city. Organisers now hope the Rafael Vera National Trophy can become an annual meeting point for bodybuilding fans and competitors.