A Record-Breaking 10th Anniversary for the TUI Rhodes Marathon in first year of TUI as title sponsor - Get updated on what's happening in tourism!

The TUI Rhodes Marathon has celebrated its 10th anniversary with an unforgettable edition, bringing together over 4,500 runners from 60 countries around the world. This marks the first year of TUI as title sponsor, reinforcing the company’s strong ties with Rhodes – one of its most cherished destinations – and its commitment to sustainability.

The event featured a range of races, from the full Marathon to a Half Marathon, 10K, 5K, and Kids Run, ensuring an inclusive experience for professional athletes, amateur runners, and families alike. Among the participants were around 500 TUI guest and over 300 TUI colleagues. Also present was Thomas Ellerbeck, member of the TUI Group Executive Committee and Chief Sustainability Officer, who supported and encouraged the runners. Meanwhile, Marco Ciomperlik, CEO TUI Airline, and Peter Ulwahn,TUI Musement CEO, took part in the 10K race.

"Rhodes holds a special place in TUI’s heart – not just as a beloved holiday destination, but as a symbol of our commitment to sustainable tourism and community engagement. The TUI Rhodes Marathon is more than a race; it’s a celebration of the island’s history, culture, and natural beauty," said Thomas Ellerbeck, Member of the TUI Group Executive Committee.

As part of its efforts to support youth sports, TUI donated to the TUI Care Foundation’s Junior Academy Rhodes. The funds will be used for educational courses designed for children, covering topics such as Biology & Oceanography, Upcycling & Recycling, Scuba Diving & Free Diving, and Ocean Veterinary Science. Over 1,000 children participated in the Kids Run, showcasing the next generation’s passion for sports and athletics.

Winners of the TUI Rhodes Marathon 2025

The TUI Rhodes Marathon concluded with an impressive display of athletic prowess, with winners from various countries, reflecting the global nature of the marathon in celebrating achievements of athletes worldwide. The top three marathon finishers received awards presented by TUI, the title sponsor of the event. 

All winners & times can be found here.

More Than a Race: A Weekend of Culture, History, and Community

The TUI Rhodes Marathon was the centerpiece of a weekend filled with cultural and sporting events, reflecting the island’s deep-rooted connection to athletics. Highlights included:

"In the Footsteps of Kallipateira" Colloquium at the Museum of Modern Greek Art, exploring the legacy of the first woman to enter the Olympic Games, a Rhodian figure.

"The Flame of Kallipateira" Theatrical Performance and Concert at the Ancient Stadium, paying tribute to Rhodes’ sporting heritage.

The TUI Rhodes Marathon Gala Dinner at Kalithea Springs brought together representatives from the local community, hoteliers, the Rhodes Marathon, and TUI to celebrate the race’s 10th edition. The event was also attended by George Hatzimarkos, Governor of South Aegean, the Region of Cyclades and Dodecanese island groups, and Alexander Basile Coliadis, Mayor of the Municipality of Rhodes.

TUI’s Drive for Sports Initiatives and Sustainable Tourism

The sponsorship of the TUI Rhodes Marathon, which will continue at least until 2027, is a key part of TUI Group’s global strategy in sponsorship. This also includes major international events such as the TUI Palma Marathon Mallorca in October 2025, where the main sponsorship has recently been extended until 2030.

As part of this strategy, the partnership with the Mediterranean Marathon League was announced, an initiative that combines the excitement of travel with the passion for running, strengthening TUI’s position in sports tourism and expanding the range of experiences available to both new and existing customers. Additionally, a multi-year partnership has been signed with the International Socca Federation (ISF), becoming the title sponsor of international Socca tournaments and highlighting the global appeal of football, the world’s most popular sport.

Image Credit: © TUI Group