DZI, the insurer with an 80-year history, is launching one of the largest partnerships in Bulgarian mass sport by becoming the official partner of Bulgaria’s leading marathons in Sofia, Varna, Burgas and Stara Zagora. The new three-year collaboration will unite the country’s most prominent urban running events under the company’s brand while promoting an active lifestyle, prevention and a stronger focus on health and wellbeing.

The upcoming long-distance race in Burgas, scheduled for 15 November, will be held for the third consecutive year, now under the name DZI Marathon Burgas. From 2027, the other two regional events will also carry the company’s name as DZI Marathon Varna and DZI Marathon Stara Zagora. Starting in 2027, DZI will also receive exclusive branding rights for the 10-kilometre distance of the Wizz Air Sofia Marathon, further strengthening the connection between Bulgaria’s largest running event and the country’s leading insurance brand.

More than 15,000 runners participate annually in the marathons held in Sofia, Varna, Burgas and Stara Zagora, making them among the largest mass sporting events in the country. The Wizz Air Sofia Marathon alone attracts over 8,000 runners from more than 60 countries, while the most recent editions of the marathons in Varna, Burgas and Stara Zagora recorded growing international participation, welcoming more than 3,700, 2,000 and nearly 1,500 international runners respectively. As their official partner and insurer, DZI will have a significant presence in the communication and delivery of all upcoming events.

"At DZI, we invest in initiatives that encourage people to be active, take care of their health and improve their quality of life. Our partnership with Bulgaria’s leading marathons is a natural extension of our mission to stand by people not only when they need protection, but also when they take steps towards a healthier and more secure future. We are proud to support events that inspire thousands of Bulgarians to be active and responsible towards themselves," said Kosta Cholakov, Chief Executive Officer of DZI.

DZI’s ambition is for the marathons carrying its name to become a symbol of proactive care for people and a better quality of life in the years ahead. Through this new partnership, the company further reinforces its long-term commitment to initiatives with a positive impact on society.

Earlier this year, as part of the celebration of its 80th anniversary, DZI also launched a nationwide volunteering campaign, committing to carry out 80 volunteer missions across Bulgaria with the support of its employees and agents. This initiative reflects the company’s broader vision of contributing to healthier, stronger and more connected communities throughout the country.