On 1 March 2026, Bologna will host the fifth edition of the Termal Bologna Marathon, dedicated to the theme “Bologna la Dotta.”
For the first time, the University of Bologna is an official partner of the event.
Over the three days, more than 40,000 participants are expected, including the 11,000 runners taking part in the races and the audience that will fill the city streets.
Bologna City Run: where research runs free
Among the scheduled races is the 5 km run organised to support research at the University of Bologna.
This non-competitive event is open to all and aims to promote the freedom of scientific research while sharing, step by step, a vision of a fairer, more sustainable, and more inclusive future. Every step represents a contribution to building knowledge, innovation and the future.
It is an opportunity for the University and the city to come together in the spirit of shared values.
The 5 km route winds through Bologna’s historic city centre and ends in Piazza Maggiore—the lively hub of the event and venue for the Marathon Village, featuring cultural, musical, and outreach activities throughout the weekend.
Registration fees for the Bologna City Run will be allocated to supporting research at the University of Bologna.
Atthe University of Bologna, research is free: it explores every field of knowledge and develops independent solutions, even in areas that often remain outside traditional funding circuits.
A commitment born from the desire to make a tangible difference in people’s lives-everyone’s lives.
The Termal Marathon programme also includes the following competitive races:
- Full Marathon (42.195 km)
- 30 km under the Porticoes
- Run Tune Up (half marathon, 21.097 km), featuring the “UNIBO 21K Challenge” - a special prize for the three fastest female and male students of the University of Bologna.
Who can participate?
The Bologna City Run is designed as a collective experience, open to everyone who studies, teaches, works, or lives in the city.
No specific athletic training is required - only the desire to take part, share, and support research, whether running or walking through the heart of Bologna.
How to participate
Why not participate as a team?
Running together makes the experience even more special. Whether you are colleagues, students, or simply friends eager to get involved and enjoy this experience together, participating as a group means sharing energy, fun, and team spirit.
Form your team, choose a name, and create your symbol to attach to your T-shirts.
- Access the official registration portal.
- Fill out the online form with your personal details.
- Select the “Team” option and choose a team name for your group.
- Each team member must indicate the same team name and enter the discount code reserved for the University of Bologna communityteam name for your group.
- Upon completion, each participant will receive an individual confirmation email.
Volunteering for students
If you are a student at the University of Bologna, you can contribute to the Bologna Marathon by taking part in a formative volunteering experience and earn an internationally recognised Open Badge certification. Fill in the online form to take part. Fill in the online form to participate