In a major step toward regional cooperation in the sport of triathlon, Hungary has officially become the host of the 2025 long-distance national championships for Croatia, Slovenia and Serbia with Austria expressing its strong intent to join the initiative.
The announcement was made during an international press event in Budapest, marking a significant expansion of the “Friendship Series”, a cross-border triathlon collaboration.
The highlight of the season will be the eXtremeMan Nagyatád race on August 10, which will serve as the championship venue for the participating countries, turning the iconic Hungarian event into a regional triathlon hub.
This initiative builds on the successful bilateral cooperation between Hungary and Romania and represents a strategic leap in regional sports diplomacy. The program aims to provide cost-effective, high-quality competition opportunities while promoting unity, development, and friendship among neighboring nations.
“This is a consciously developed strategy to position Hungary as the regional center for triathlon,” said Gábor Kindl, President of the Hungarian Triathlon Federation. “Through the Friendship Series, we aim to create more opportunities for athletes, strengthen partnerships, and build a network of trust and excellence across our region.”
“This is an excellent and innovative model that could be adapted by other regions as well,” noted Herwig Grabner. “Bringing multiple national championships under one roof is not only logistically smart, but also aligned with Europe Triathlon’s long-term goals.”
“As Head of Development at World Triathlon, I see this as a key example of regional collaboration driving real growth. The Friendship Series is a valuable tool for building both sporting quality and community,” added Zita Csovelyák.
Each federation emphasized how the agreement enables them to raise their national standards and offer their athletes a top-tier racing experience. For Slovenia and Croatia, the 2025 race in Nagyatád will mark their first official long-distance national championships in history.
“Although the Slovenian Triathlon Federation has existed since 1991, this will be a milestone for us,” said Mitja Mori. “It is an honor to participate in this regional collaboration,” added Dorijan Pavlisa.
“This is a game-changer for Croatian triathlon.” “Hungary has supported Serbian triathlon since the 1990s. This partnership deepens that friendship,” said Ljudmilla Medan.
“The future of triathlon in this region depends on initiatives like this,” emphasized Vlad Stoica, President of Triathlon Romania.“Together, we can build something remarkable.”
This unique alliance is expected to raise the profile of triathlon across Central Europe and set a precedent for similar collaborations in other sports.