Wizz Air Fuels Milan’s Tourism Growth with Milano Marathon Sponsorship, Expanding International Access and Promoting Sustainable Travel

Published on April 10, 2025

Wizz Air, one of Europe’s leading low-cost carriers, has further solidified its connection to Milan by becoming the title sponsor of the Milano Marathon for the second consecutive year. This partnership emphasizes the airline’s commitment to making travel more accessible, while also boosting Milan’s reputation as a premier destination for international marathons and sporting events.

Milano Marathon Breaks Participation Records

The 23rd edition of the Milano Marathon proved to be a resounding success, with a record-breaking number of participants. Over 10,000 runners competed, with more than 5,500 international athletes joining from various countries, including France, Germany, Great Britain, and Belgium. This surge in global participation highlights the growing international appeal of Milan as a major marathon destination and underscores the role of events like these in promoting Milan on the global sporting map.

Wizz Air’s Contribution to Milan’s Global Reach

Wizz Air’s involvement in the Milano Marathon also strengthened Milan’s accessibility as a destination for travelers. The airline’s direct routes to Milano Malpensa Airport—one of its largest Italian hubs—made it easier for international participants to travel to the event, highlighting Wizz Air’s commitment to enhancing Milan’s connectivity with the world. By offering affordable and direct flights, Wizz Air played a significant role in making Milan more accessible to athletes and tourists alike.

The Marathon Route: A Tour of Milan’s Iconic Landmarks

The race commenced at Piazza del Duomo, Milan’s iconic cathedral square, which set the stage for a unique marathon experience. Runners traversed through the heart of Milan, passing by historic landmarks like the Sforza Castle, La Scala Opera House, and the Porta Nuova skyscrapers. This picturesque route not only showcased Milan’s architectural grandeur but also provided participants with a cultural journey through the city, blending history with modernity.

A Shared Vision of Dynamism and Sustainability

Wizz Air’s sponsorship of the Milano Marathon aligns perfectly with its core values of dynamism, accessibility, and social sustainability. The airline and the marathon share a common goal of making events and experiences more inclusive for a global audience, fostering community engagement, and promoting a healthy, active lifestyle. Wizz Air’s corporate communications manager, Salvatore Gabriele Imperiale, expressed his pride in the continued partnership, noting, “The Milano Marathon represents the perfect opportunity to showcase our commitment to making travel accessible to all, while promoting sustainable and healthy living for communities across Europe and beyond.”

Wizz Run Series: Encouraging Participation Across All Levels

Alongside the marathon, Wizz Air introduced the Wizz Run Series, an initiative aimed at encouraging runners of all skill levels to participate in the sport. The program reflects the airline’s belief that running, much like air travel, should be accessible to everyone. Through this initiative, Wizz Air hopes to promote running as a fun, accessible, and inclusive activity for people of all ages and backgrounds.

Supporting Milan’s Tourism and Economy

The Milano Marathon serves as a crucial event for Milan, drawing thousands of participants and spectators each year. As a sponsor, Wizz Air not only helps facilitate the growth of the event but also contributes to the local economy by attracting international visitors. Tourism is a vital sector of Milan’s economy, and Wizz Air’s involvement in the marathon helps bolster the city’s profile as a leading international destination for both sports and leisure travel. The airline’s efforts to increase access to Milan through affordable flights support the city’s wider tourism objectives, positioning Milan as an attractive option for both short-term visitors and long-term investments.

Wizz Air’s Continued Investment in Milan

Wizz Air’s support for the Milano Marathon is part of its broader strategy to strengthen its presence in Milan and throughout Italy. The airline operates five bases in Italy, with Milano Malpensa being one of the primary hubs. Wizz Air’s extensive network of routes across Europe and beyond makes it an integral part of Milan’s tourism infrastructure. Through events like the Milano Marathon, Wizz Air reinforces its commitment to Milan as a key destination for travelers and athletes alike, offering direct connections to the city from various European locations.

Looking Ahead: Milan as a Global Sports Destination

As Milan continues to grow as a leading hub for international sports events, Wizz Air’s ongoing partnership with the Milano Marathon will help ensure that the city remains on the global sports calendar. The marathon, now a major event in Europe’s sporting landscape, is expected to attract even more participants and spectators in the coming years. Wizz Air’s role in making the event more accessible will continue to boost Milan’s profile, not only as a business and cultural center but also as a premier destination for sports tourism.