Atheletics -- Madrid's largest (20,000 capacity) athletic stadium -- the Estadio de la Comunidad de Madrid, Av. de Arcantales s/n (tel. 91-720-24-00; Metro: Las Musas; Bus: 48) -- still ambitiously aims to expand fourfold in the coming years (this in spite of the reduced incentive after the city's failure to win the bid to host the 2012 Olympics). Located on the rapidly expanding eastern edge of the city, it features a variety of athletic events as well as periodic concerts.
Basketball -- Basketball (baloncesto in Spanish) is almost as popular as fútbol all over Spain, and you can watch the sport in several locales throughout the city. The best is the 15,000-capacity Palacio Vistalegre stadium, Calle Utebo 1 (tel. 91-422-07-81; www.palaciovistalegre.com; Metro: Vista Alegre; bus: 34, 35, 118, or 119), situated in the southwestern suburbs and rebuilt in 2000 over the old Plaza de Toros. It's still also a venue for bullfights as well as rock and opera concerts.
Fútbol -- If you're a fan of English-style football (soccer), then the place to go is Santiago Bernabeu, Paseo de la Castellana 144 (tel. 91-229-17-09; www.realmadrid.es; ticket office Mon-Fri 6-9pm; tickets 16€-90€/$25-$144; Metro: Santiago Bernabeu; bus: 27, 40, 126, 147, or 150), Madrid's largest stadium: Total capacity is 75,000 spectators. This is the home of Spain's most successful team Real Madrid, regarded by diehard fanatics as even more important than the Prado or Palacio Real. The team's host of charismatic international stars includes Brazil's Ronaldinho. When no games are in progress, you can visit the stadium as part of an informal tour (check at the ticket office) or simply wander in and have a drink at the cafe (which offers a great view of the pitch). Tickets to events can also be booked by phone (tel. 90-232-43-24) using a credit card (MC, V) and picked up on the day of the match at Gate 14.
Horseracing -- The Hipódromo Madrid race course, Avenida Padre Huidobro, Carretera de La Coruña A6 Km 8 (tel. 91-740-05-40; www.hipodromomadrid.com; 9€/$14 or 12€/$19 including parking; children 13 and under free; bus: 654, 655, 658 from Moncloa bus station), also known as La Zarzuela, lies north of the city just past the elite sports complex of Puerta de Hierro. It was relaunched in 2006 after having been closed for several decades. The racetrack is usually only open Sunday mornings from 10am, but timetables vary and summertime often features night races. The race track is closed in December. Check directly with the racetrack for relevant timetables during your visit.
