The men's field also included Hungarian Miklós Roskovics, who finished sixth.Continue reading
In recent years, Hungary has cemented its place on the global sports tourism map, and 2024 marks an impressive leap forward, particularly in the realm of running events. Building on the momentum from the 2023 World Athletics Championships, this year saw Hungary host the European Orienteering Championships and a series of major marathons and races that set new international participation records.
A significant highlight was the launch of a Netflix series of commercials (Sprint) focusing on Budapest’s sports tourism appeal, reveals the Oeconomus Economic Research Foundation. Featuring the World Athletics Championships venues and the city’s vibrant energy, this promotional effort underscored Hungary’s growing reputation as a premier sports tourism destination.
The 2024 season witnessed unprecedented participation in Hungary’s top marathons, reflecting a global trend where sports enthusiasts seek out international running experiences.
Key events included the Telekom Vivicittá, Wizz Air Budapest Half Marathon, Ultrabalaton, and the Spar Budapest Marathon, all setting new records for international participation.
Spar Budapest Marathon:
Held in October, the Spar Budapest Marathon attracted 30,000 runners, including 6,300 foreign participants from 107 countries—a record for any Hungarian sporting event. This influx translated into more than 50,000 overnight stays, highlighting the significant tourism impact. This was the first time since the pandemic that participation surpassed 30,000 runners, reaffirming Budapest’s status as a global marathon hub.
Ultrabalaton:
In September, the Ultrabalaton race saw over 25,000 starters, including 2,500 teams from 26 countries across Europe, Asia, and North America. This iconic endurance event around Lake Balaton has grown annually, becoming a magnet for international teams and showcasing Hungary’s diverse natural landscapes.
Lake Balaton. Photo via Facebook/Napsugár Kemping – Balaton
Wizz Air Budapest Half Marathon:
Early September brought the Wizz Air Budapest Half Marathon, attracting 13,500 runners, including 3,000 international participants from nearly 30 countries. This marked a sharp increase from previous years.
Telekom Vivicittá:
In April, the Vivicittá festival drew more than 23,000 runners competing across 12 distances. With over 2,200 participants from 102 countries, the festival has evolved into an international celebration, fostering cultural exchange and boosting Budapest’s visibility on the global sports stage.
Sports tourism is one of the fastest-growing sectors globally, and Hungary’s running events exemplify this trend. These events not only attract runners but also their families, friends, and support teams, creating a multiplier effect on the local economy. Studies have shown that sports tourists tend to be highly educated, with above-average incomes and a strong willingness to spend on travel, accommodations, and cultural experiences.
Research published in Springer’s Sport Economy highlights that such events significantly benefit host cities by stimulating local businesses and creating a vibrant cultural exchange. The economic impact is particularly pronounced in smaller cities and regions, where the influx of tourists brings renewed vitality.
Hungary’s success in 2024 demonstrates its potential to become a leading destination for sports tourism in Central Europe. With well-organized events, international marketing efforts, and a rich cultural backdrop, Hungary offers an unparalleled experience for sports enthusiasts.
Via Oeconomus; Featured image via MTI/Balogh Zoltán