Promogift
Don't miss the International Promotional Products and Personalisation Machinery Exhibition
In August 2025, IFEMA MADRID became the global epicentre of cardiology as it hosted, for the first time, the ESC Congress organized by the European Society of Cardiology (ESC). Marking its 75th anniversary, this congress —the largest scientific event in the cardiovascular field worldwide-— brought together over 33,400 professionals from 169 countries, with 28,700 in-person attendees in the Spanish capital. The event firmly positioned both Madrid and IFEMA MADRID as international benchmarks in hosting large-scale medical congresses.
Madrid: the city of choice for excellence
Fewer than ten European cities meet the demanding criteria required to host the ESC Congress. The decision to select Madrid followed an exhaustive evaluation process that assessed venue infrastructure, international connectivity, hotel capacity, compliance with health regulations, sustainability, and the collaboration of local authorities, among other factors. The city’s rich cultural and architectural offering, its manageable size, and its efficient public transport network made it an ideal location, especially for delegates from Latin America and Central America —key markets for the ESC.
Organizers highlighted that the combination of a modern venue, well connected to the international airport, and a welcoming urban environment was decisive in delivering a smooth and satisfying experience for delegates. Collaboration with international organizations such as the World Heart Federation reinforced the message of ‘Cardiology Beyond Borders” underscoring the congress’ global reach.
IFEMA MADRID: a strategic partner
One of the most valued aspects for organizers was IFEMA MADRID’s proximity to Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport and its easy access by public transport, which simplified logistics for thousands of participants. The venue layout, with Avenida Central serving as the main axis connecting the exhibition halls and the North Convention Centre, ensured an intuitive flow throughout the venue, while efficient on-site services guaranteed seamless operations.
The IFEMA MADRID teams worked in close coordination on the event’s logistical, technical and operational preparation, showcasing their extensive experience in managing large-scale international congresses. Even in unforeseen situations —such as a temporary water supply issue— the response was swift and effective, demonstrating the team’s adaptability and commitment to excellence.
The hosting of the ESC Congress is the result of an 18-year relationship between IFEMA MADRID and the ESC, during which the institution has also hosted four other congresses from the society’s portfolio at the fairground.
For IFEMA MADRID, this success story highlights the venue’s and teams’ ability to adapt to the challenges of internationalization, provide advanced logistical solutions and ensure the satisfaction of organizers and participants alike. The expertise gained and the visibility achieved further consolidate the venue’s position as a strategic partner for leading scientific events.
A landmark event for global cardiology
Since its inception in 1952, the ESC Congress has been the foremost annual scientific meeting in cardiology, covering the full spectrum of cardiovascular medicine. The 2025 edition spanned 100,000 sqm, organized into 11 major thematic areas, featuring 1,267 scientific sessions, 1,852 invited faculty members, 4,254 abstract and case presenters, and a 6,526 sqm exhibition area. Under the theme ‘Global Health: Cardiology Beyond Borders’, the congress emphasized the importance of international collaboration in tackling cardiovascular diseases —the world’s leading cause of death.
For IFEMA MADRID, hosting an event of this scale represents clear recognition of its capacity to manage complex, technically demanding congresses for highly specialized professional audiences. Beyond its economic impact, the presence of the ESC Congress reaffirms Madrid’s position as a strategic hub for international scientific and medical congresses.
The impact of ESC Congress on Madrid
The event made a significant mark on both the local economy and the city’s international projection. Over 28,000 international professionals generated a substantial economic boost on hotels, transport, catering and local services, reinforcing Madrid’s reputation as a prime destination for major scientific congresses. The presence of leading figures and extensive media coverage further positioned IFEMA MADRID as a European benchmark in organizing international medical events.
Moreover, the congress provided a platform for global interaction among cardiovascular health professionals, enabling the exchange of scientific advances, technological innovations and best clinical practices. The close collaboration between the ESC and IFEMA MADRID was key to ensuring a seamless and secure experience for both organizers and participants.
A shared success
From the initial bidding process to the closing session, collaboration between IFEMA MADRID and the ESC remained close and consistent. The expertise of local teams, combined with the ESC’s global vision, enabled both organizations to overcome logistical and technical challenges and ensure the success of the first ESC Congress held in Madrid. Organizers emphasized IFEMA MADRID’s proactive and professional approach, its ability to adapt to unexpected situations and its commitment to maintaining a collaborative and efficient working environment.
This event demonstrates that IFEMA MADRID is not only capable of hosting large-scale international congresses but can do so with a level of operational excellence that strengthens its reputation within the global ecosystem of scientific and medical events. The success of ESC Congress 2025 provides a solid foundation for considering Madrid and IFEMA MADRID as a preferred choice for future editions of the congress.