The Termal Bologna Marathon returns for its fifth edition, bringing an exciting new partnership: for the first time, the University of Bologna will be the official partner of the event, which will be dedicated to “Bologna la Dotta” — “Bologna the Learned”.
This year’s theme, “Bologna la Dotta” (following “Bologna la Turrita” in 2024 and “Bologna la Grassa” in 2025), celebrates the central role that knowledge, culture, and education have always played in the city’s history.
This message is further strengthened by the partnership with the University of Bologna, which in 2026 will “take to the streets” alongside thousands of runners to reaffirm the importance of education as a driving force for both personal and collective growth.
The new event claim, “Think Smart Run Far”, perfectly captures the meeting point between the academic and sports worlds — an invitation to combine intelligence and determination, knowledge and resilience.
The same strength required to complete an academic journey is mirrored in every marathoner striving toward the finish line.
The goal is clear: to engage younger generations by showing how running can become a metaphor for personal and collective growth.
The Termal Bologna Marathon continues to establish itself as an international event, attracting athletes from all over Italy and abroad.
Sport, history, art, music, and gastronomy come together in the heart of Bologna, turning the city into a stage for community and connection.
The programme includes:
- Marathon (42.195 km)
- 30 km dei Portici
- Run Tune Up (21.097 km) – now in its 22nd edition
- City Run (5 km) – open to everyone
- Kids Marathon – dedicated to the youngest runners
Piazza Maggiore will be the heart of the event — the finish line for all races and the site of the Marathon Village, which will come alive throughout the weekend with activities, talks, presentations, and cultural and musical events.
The 2026 edition is expected to break records: over 8,000 competitive runners and 3,000 recreational participants, for a total of 11,000 registered runners.
Including companions, spectators, and visitors, Bologna will welcome more than 40,000 people over three days of sport, energy, and participation.
“We are proud to officially join the event as a partner through a framework agreement that defines shared initiatives in communication, logistics, and solidarity,”
said Rector Giovanni Molari.
“The University of Bologna is not only a place for study and research but also a vibrant community that interacts with the city. Think Smart Run Far embodies our shared values: passion for knowledge, determination to achieve ambitious goals, and the desire to grow together, step by step.”
“We are deeply satisfied with the collaboration with the University of Bologna,”
added President Teresa Lopilato.
“This partnership enhances the prestige of the Bologna Marathon and reinforces its meaning: it shows how a sporting event can become an opportunity for dialogue and for spreading essential values.
We thank the University for sharing with us the desire to inspire young people who are building their future in Bologna with common values of passion, commitment, and growth.”
Registration is now open on the official website until February 20, 2026. The next price change is scheduled for October 31, 2025. Those registering between February 17 and 20, 2026 will receive a non-personalised bib in the last start grid.
Each registration includes bib number, technical T-shirt, race pack with sponsor gadgets (to be collected at the Marathon Village), insurance, race assistance, refreshments along the route, and a final refreshment area.
For more information: info@bolognamarathon.run
