Competition rules
Venue: Debrecen, Nagyerdei krt. 12, 4028,
Race Center: HALL Debrecen – Nagyerdei Stadium, North Event Area
Date: April 4, 2027, Sunday
Purpose of the event
The purpose of the Debrecen Maraton is to provide runners with an unforgettable sporting and cultural experience, while elite athletes and dedicated recreational runners together experience the power of running along the city’s landmarks, historic buildings and most atmospheric squares, promoting a healthy lifestyle and, above all, the joy of running.
Organizer
MSE Klaszter Közhasznu Nonprofit Kft., the University of Debrecen, and Debreceni Sportcentrum Közhasznu Nonprofit Kft.
Race categories and age groups
We welcome sports and running enthusiasts to the Debrecen Maraton across five different distances and seven categories. The event is a true community celebration, where elite athletes and dedicated recreational runners together experience the power and joy of running.
Distances and categories
- Children’s and charity run – 1.7 km (individual)
- Short distance – 5 km (individual)
- Quarter marathon – 10.548m (individual)*
- Half marathon – 21.097 km (individual, 2-person relay)* / cut-off time 3 hours 45 minutes
- Marathon – 42.195 km (individual, 2-3-4-person relay)* / cut-off time: 6 hours
*internationally certified course
To ensure cut-off times are respected, participants may be stopped from continuing if they complete a given section of the race beyond the cut-off time proportional to the distance covered. During the last lap of the marathon distance, the “sweeper” vehicle will pick up any runner who would complete the distance beyond the specified cut-off time and transport them to the finish area.
Age groups and age restrictions
- There is no age restriction for the 1.7 km distance.
- Participants in the 5 km distance must have turned 10 years old by the day of the race
- Participants in the Quarter marathon distance must have turned 14 years old by the day of the race.
- Participants in the Half marathon distance must have turned 16 years old by the day of the race.
- Participants in the Marathon distance must have turned 18 years old by the day of the race.
For relay teams, the age limit is determined by the longest segment that can be run.
- Half marathon 2-person relay – age limit applicable to the Quarter marathon
- Marathon 2-person relay – age limit applicable to the Half marathon
- Marathon 3-person relay – age limit applicable to the Half marathon
- Marathon 4-person relay – age limit applicable to the Quarter marathon
Participants under 18 years of age are required to submit a parental consent form when collecting their bib number, in which the parent or guardian authorizes participation in the race at their own responsibility.
Program and schedule
April 2, Friday
| 16:00 – 20:00 | Race pack pickup |
April 3, Saturday
| 12:00 – 20:00 | Race pack pickup |
| 12:00 – 20:00 | Drop-off of individual refreshments for placement by the organizers |
| 17:00 – 20:00 | Pasta party |
April 4, Sunday
| 06:00 | Start of race pack pickup |
| 07:45 | Closing of Marathon race pack/bib number pickup |
| 08:05 | Opening of start area – Marathon |
| 08:15 – 08:25 | Warm-up (Start area) |
| 08:15 | Closing of Half marathon race pack/bib number pickup |
| 08:25 | Closing of start area – Marathon |
| 08:30 | Marathon start |
| 08:35 | Opening of start area – Half marathon |
| 08:45 – 08:55 | Warm-up (Start area) |
| 08:55 | Closing of start area – Half marathon |
| 09:00 | Half marathon start |
| 09:00 | Closing of Quarter marathon race pack/bib number pickup |
| 09:20 | Opening of start area – Quarter marathon |
| 09:30 – 09:40 | Warm-up (Start area) |
| 09:40 | Closing of start area – Quarter marathon |
| 09:45 | Quarter marathon start |
| 10:30 | Closing of 5km race pack/bib number pickup |
| 10:50 | Opening of start area – 5km |
| 11:00 | Closing of 1.7km race pack/bib number pickup |
| 11:10 | Closing of start area – 5km |
| 11:15 | Short distance start |
| 11:20 | Opening of start area – 1.7km |
| 11:40 | Closing of start area – 1.7km |
| 11:45 | Children’s and charity run start |
Depending on the number of registrations, the organizers reserve the right to change the schedule!
Award ceremonies and prizes
Children’s and charity run – Individual
There is no overall or age-group ranking. Results are published for informational purposes only.
Short distance – Individual
Overall: male and female 1st–3rd place
Individual age groups:
- 10–34 years: male and female 1st–3rd place
- 35–49 years: male and female 1st–3rd place
- 50+ years: male and female 1st–3rd place
Quarter marathon – Individual
Overall: male and female 1st–3rd place
Individual age groups:
- 14–34 years: male and female 1st–3rd place
- 35–49 years: male and female 1st–3rd place
- 50+ years: male and female 1st–3rd place
Half marathon – Individual
Overall: male, female 1st–3rd place
Individual age groups:
- 16–34 years: male and female 1st–3rd place
- 35–49 years: male and female 1st–3rd place
- 50+ years: male and female 1st–3rd place
Half marathon – 2-person relay**
Overall: 2-person relay 1st–3rd place
Marathon – Individual
Overall: male and female 1st–3rd place
Individual age groups:
- 18–34 years: male and female 1st–3rd place
- 35–49 years: male and female 1st–3rd place
- 50+ years: male and female 1st–3rd place
Marathon – 2-3-4-person relay**
Overall: 2-person relay 1st–3rd place, 3-person relay 1st–3rd place, 4-person relay 1st–3rd place
** for relay teams there is no age-group or composition-based (female or male runners) categorization, only overall ranking.
The overall winners (individual 1st–3rd placed female and male finishers, as well as 1st–3rd placed relay teams) will be awarded following the finish of the 3rd-placed athlete (relay team) in the given race category.
The announcement of age-group results will take place according to the following schedule:
12:15 Short distance award ceremony
12:30 Quarter marathon award ceremony
12:45 Half marathon award ceremony
13:00 Marathon award ceremony
Overall results are announced based on gun time, while age-group results are announced based on net time.
Registration fees and deadlines
| Distance | Sep 16 yoUDay price |
Sep 17 – Jan 1 |
Jan 2 – Mar 31 |
Apr 1–4 last minute price |
| Children’s and charity run 1.7 km | 2 090 Ft | 2 290 Ft | 2 490 Ft | 2 890 Ft |
| Short distance 5 km | 7 290 Ft | 8 090 Ft | 8 990 Ft | 10 390 Ft |
| Quarter marathon individual | 12 190 Ft | 13 490 Ft | 14 990 Ft | 17 290 Ft |
| Half marathon individual | 16 190 Ft | 17 990 Ft | 19 990 Ft | 22 990 Ft |
| Half marathon relay | 24 290 Ft | 26 990 Ft | 29 990 Ft | 34 490 Ft |
| Debrecen Marathon individual | 21 890 Ft | 24 290 Ft | 26 990 Ft | 30 090 Ft |
| Debrecen Marathon relay | 40 490 Ft | 44 990 Ft | 49 990 Ft | 57 490 Ft |
Race packs/bib numbers can only be collected by presenting the QR code received in the confirmation email. Without presenting the QR code, our colleagues are unable to hand over the pack and the bib number. Race pack pickup will be available on the day of the race as well as on the days leading up to it, at the HALL Race Center:
Friday, April 2, 2027, 16:00 - 20:00
Saturday, April 3, 2027, 12:00 - 20:00
Sunday, April 4, 2027, 06:00 - 11:00 (for some distances, until 45 minutes before the start)
The registration fee includes the following
- participation in the event
- closed and secured route
- bib number
- a unique finisher medal for those who successfully complete the race
- chip timing
- refreshments
- medical service throughout the entire duration of the race
- race pack
- finish-line video of your arrival
- online photos
- online certificate
By registering, the participant agrees that the Organizers may store their data in their database and send newsletters and information related to the race to the provided email address. The registration must be filled out accurately, completely, and with data that corresponds to reality.
Payment of the registration fee
Online registration is valid only if it concludes with a successful card payment (SimplePay). After payment, you will see a “Successful payment” message, followed by a confirmation email. The registration fee is always recorded according to the price valid on the day of payment.
Last minute registration
We provide the opportunity for online registration during race weekend (April 1 - 4). Registration for a given race closes 60 minutes before its start, while bib number pickup closes 45 minutes before the race.
Transfer of registration
The transfer of registration can be initiated on the website by clicking the button provided for this purpose, until March 31, 2027. The transfer fee is 1.190 Ft, and can be started by filling out the online form.
Modification of registration
Registration can only be modified in the case of switching to a shorter distance, until March 31, 2027. Please note that in such cases, we are unable to refund the difference between registration fees. Unfortunately, it is not possible to modify a registration between the individual and relay categories. The modification fee is 1.190 Ft, and can be started by filling out the online form.
Cancellation of registration
Free cancellation of registration is possible until February 15, 2027 by filling out the following form. The registration fee is always refunded to the original payment transaction, which means that registrations paid within a single transaction are handled together: partial refunds are not possible, only the full registration paid in one sum can be cancelled. The refunded amount will be automatically credited to the bank card used for payment. From February 16, 2027, it will no longer be possible to cancel a registration or receive a refund of the registration fee.
Route, refreshment stations
The marathon, half marathon and quarter marathon races are held on an internationally certified course. The course profile provides the opportunity to achieve excellent results. The 5km and 1.7km courses were primarily designed for recreational athletes, so their length may differ slightly from the official distances indicated.
Refreshment stations are set up after the start/finish area, as well as on the Hatvan utca section of the course, where, where water, isotonic drink and fruit are available. In addition to the above, the organizers provide a water refreshment option on the southern section of Pallagi ut (the section between Nagyerdei korut and Olah Gabor utca).
The organizers provide the option of individual refreshments for participants in the marathon distance. Individual refreshments may be placed by the athletes themselves, or by the companions assisting them, on the tables designated for this purpose at the start/finish area and at the refreshment stations near Hatvan utca. Companions assisting athletes may also hand individual refreshments directly to the runner from the designated zone, while individual refreshments handed in to the race organizers by 20:00 on Saturday will be placed by the organizers the following morning on the relevant individual refreshment table, in ascending order by bib number. Refreshments must always be clearly marked with the competitor’s bib number, and athletes must collect them from the table themselves.
Participants are required to keep to the right along the entire race route, and on certain sections they may encounter oncoming runner traffic, as well as parallel vehicle traffic – separated from the running course. Therefore, attentive movement and compliance with the rules are especially important for safe progress.
Race-specific information
Bib number
The bib number must be worn clearly visible at the front. It must not be covered, folded, or deliberately damaged, as detection of the chip on a damaged/covered bib number cannot be guaranteed. Violation of the rules regarding the bib number and the proper use of the chip may result in a time penalty or disqualification.
Exchange, exchange points and section allocation
In relay races, each team member receives their own bib number, while timing is done using a dedicated relay bib number. The first members of relay teams must enter the start area wearing both their own and the relay bib number, while the exchange takes place by handing over the relay bib number at the designated exchange point (approximately 100-150m before the start/finish area).
We ask teams to pay attention to the safety of other runners during the exchange, and that only the runners currently exchanging remain in the exchange zone.
We provide relay team members the opportunity to cross the finish line together (and receive finish-line refreshments), for which they must gather at the point designated next to the exchange zone and join the finishing relay member. Important! All members of the relay team can collect their finisher medals at the end of the finish refreshment area following the joint finish.
Mandatory right of way
Right of way must always be given to ambulances – and other vehicles using their distinctive signals. Runners must move aside and ensure unobstructed passage.
General provisions
By registering and enrolling, every participant accepts what is described in the race regulations. and the competition rules. Everyone participates in the race at their own risk. The participant declares that their state of health meets the conditions for participation. The Organizers are not liable for damages or health impairment arising in connection with the race that are not attributable to them, and cannot be held liable for compensation. The organizers reserve the right to modify the competition rules, which will be published on the race website under the competition rules menu item.
The Debrecen Maraton is an open, inclusive and politically neutral sporting event that puts the joy of movement, a healthy lifestyle and the community experience at the forefront. During the race, participants may not wear or display any inscriptions, symbols or other content that is offensive to others, capable of ethnic, ideological, gender-based, political or religious exclusion, or that is incompatible with the spirit of the event.
The organizers reserve the right to restrict any appearance contrary to the above principles, and to take action if necessary to ensure the smooth running of the event and safety for everyone.
Rules of conduct
Unsportsmanlike behavior, individually altering the route, leaving the course, littering, or failing to complete the full distance will result in disqualification. Accompanying participants on the course is prohibited. Bicycles, roller skates, scooters, electric scooters, dogs, or running without a bib number are not permitted; participants may be disqualified for violations. Keeping to the right is in effect along the route.
Organizational and safety provisions
The Organizers reserve the right to modify the course route, race schedule, and the date of the event. The Organizers reserve the right to limit the number of participants and may close registration at any time. The race will not be postponed due to unfavorable weather conditions; however, in the event of force majeure or an epidemic situation, the Organizers reserve the right to suspend, postpone or cancel the race. The Organizers assume no liability for valuables left unattended at the race venue.
Advertising and media
Any commercial or advertising activity throughout the entire event area may only be carried out with the prior permission of the Organizer and in an agreed manner. Photos and videos taken during the race may be used by the Organizers for marketing purposes, for which participants are not entitled to any compensation.
Green race and environmental protection
Participants acknowledge that the Organizers’ decisions are guided by the principles of a green race, environmental protection and health promotion. During the event, we strive to reduce the amount of waste, so at the refreshment stations we provide the option to fill your own reusable cup.
Liability disclaimer
Participants of the Debrecen Maraton, as well as the guardians of minor participants, accept, declare and acknowledge, at the time of registration, that:
- the event is a recreational activity in which everyone participates at their own risk.
- everyone uses the equipment, course fixtures and facilities used at the event at their own risk and for their intended purpose.
- they assume all risks during participation, and declare that their state of health meets the conditions for participation, and that they are not under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or any performance-affecting medication.
- if they notice any unusual or dangerous circumstance, it is their duty to stop the race and notify the organizers.
- as adults on their own behalf, or as legal guardians on behalf of the person in their care, they take responsibility for the voluntary nature of participation, and are aware of the risks arising from the sporting activity.
- they have adequate health insurance, and consent to receiving first aid and medical care if necessary.
- the organizers may postpone, modify or cancel the race due to weather conditions or other unforeseeable reasons.
- the organizers may use, distribute and publish photo, video and audio recordings made of them for any purpose, without restriction and without compensation.
- they waive any claim for damages against the organizers, sponsors, advertisers or other persons involved in the organization of the event, which may arise from their participation in the race.
- they have read the race regulations, understood their content, and accept them upon registration, of their own free will and being aware of their own responsibility.
- their state of health allows for safe participation in the race, they have the necessary physical fitness, and they are not aware of any health risk or illness that would prevent their participation or pose a danger to others.