Ultramarathon Journey Details

April 25 | Novi Sad → Osijek

The relay started in Novi Sad, where 21 university students began their 1,950-kilometre journey to Brussels. They were seen off by hundreds of supporters outside the city’s closed central railway station, the site of a tragic canopy collapse that claimed 16 lives. This incident, attributed to state corruption and unsafe infrastructure practices, served as the catalyst for the students’ protest. The send-off was covered by international media, emphasising the students’ call for the European Union to uphold its democratic values in response to Serbia’s political climate.

Local students and residents organised a celebratory reception in Vatroslav Lisinski Square in Osijek. The runners were greeted with cheers, music, and banners bearing messages such as “Pumpaj” (Pump it up), “One world, one fight”, and “Solidarity has no borders”. A red ribbon was stretched across the square for the runners to cross, symbolising their entry into supportive territory. Local organisations and residents provided food, drinks, and accommodations, with locals offering their homes to host the runners.

April 26 | Osijek → Virovitica

Upon arriving in Virovitica, Croatia, the student runners were warmly welcomed by approximately two hundred citizens, including notable figures like the singer Severina Vučković. The reception highlighted the regional support for the students’ mission and brought significant media attention to their cause. The runners continued their journey to Varaždin, Croatia.

April 27 | Virovitica → Varaždin

The welcoming event in Varaždin took place at King Tomislav Square, organized by a civic initiative with support from the City of Varaždin. Mayor Neven Bosilj attended the reception, emphasising the importance of looking towards a better future rather than dwelling on the past. The city administration provided accommodation and dinner for the runners, who spent the night in the local sports hall. 16 Croatian students greeted the marathoners, holding banners bearing the names of the 16 victims who lost their lives in the Novi Sad railway station tragedy. The gathering observed 16 minutes of silence in their honour. The event featured the song “For a Million Years”, and attendees chanted slogans like “One world, one struggle”, highlighting the shared commitment to justice and solidarity.

April 28 | Varaždin → Graz

Crossing into Austria, the students reached Graz. The arrival in Graz was noted by regional media, highlighting the continued progress of the students’ mission to draw attention to issues of justice and democracy in Serbia. City Councillor Nenad Savić welcomed the students on behalf of Mayor Elke Kahr, who was unable to attend. Member of Parliament Claudia Nitsche was also present. A touching installation featuring 16 pairs of shoes, symbolising the 16 victims, was set up, accompanied by candles and flowers. The international choir “SoSamma” performed both in English and Serbian; only two members were from the Balkans, while the rest were Austrian women who even sang the Serbian anthem.

Photo credits: Jelena Zdravković

April 29 | Graz → Oberpullendorf

On April 29, 2025, at 18:00, the “Track to Brussels” ultramarathon runners arrived in Oberpullendorf, Austria, where they were warmly welcomed by the local Croatian community. The reception took place at the town square (Trg), and most of the students spent the night at the cultural association KUGA (Kulturna zadruga) in Großwarasdorf, a nearby village. The Burgenland Croats, who have a long-standing presence in the region, hosted the runners, providing them with food, accommodations, and heartfelt support. The Croatian community in Burgenland has a rich cultural heritage and has been instrumental in preserving traditions and fostering solidarity among Slavic minorities in Austria. Their support for the students underscores the strong ties between the Serbian and Croatian communities in the region and their shared commitment to democratic values and justice.

The students’ journey through Oberpullendorf was a testament to the power of cross-border solidarity and the importance of cultural exchange in promoting understanding and cooperation among European nations.

April 30 | Oberpullendorf → Vienna

In Vienna, the capital of Austria, around 2,000 people gathered at Maria-Theresien-Platz to welcome the ultramarathon runners. Despite arriving nearly four hours later than planned, the runners were met with cheers, certificates, and medals from the Serbian diaspora and local supporters—an outpouring of solidarity that underscored the broader support for their cause. This event marked a pivotal moment on the road to Strasbourg, highlighting the cross-border commitment to democratic values and accountability in Serbia.
Austrian Minister for European and International Affairs, Beate Meinl-Reisinger, greeted the Serbian students wearing running shoes, symbolising her support. Speaking in the heart of the city, she praised their courage and determination, saying, “What you are doing is unbelievable, so brave.” She stressed that the students’ aspirations for progress, democracy, rule of law, and opportunity mirrored those of the European Union.

Highlights of the the event were:

Media coverage of the Vienna event included:

May 1 | Vienna → Seitenstetten

Departing from Vienna on May Day, a significant holiday in many European countries, the runners made their way to Seitenstetten. On their way, during their stay in Linz, they were welcomed by local citizens and diaspora members, who organised a modest evening gathering due to Austria’s noise regulations. The event included the release of 16 white balloons in memory of the victims of the Novi Sad train station canopy collapse. Georg Hubmann, a city councillor in Linz, addressed the welcoming event for the Serbian student marathoners in the city, saying he was impressed by their endeavour. “Welcome to Linz. I believe it is important for all of Europe to know what you are fighting for, because you are fighting for good reasons. You are fighting against corruption. You are fighting for peace. You are fighting for democratic institutions that serve the people who need them. You are fighting for fundamental democratic rights such as freedom of speech, freedom of the press, and so on”, he told the Serbian students. He emphasised that this is an important fight, one that matters for Europe as well. “It is truly incredible to witness your efforts and your endurance in the protests in Serbia. Thank you!”,Hubmann said. He expressed his admiration for the students’ struggle.

May 2 | Seitenstetten → Salzburg

The students arrived in Salzburg on Friday evening where a crowd of Serbians and Austrians met them. The students have covered 966 kilometres on day 8 of their relay run to Brussels. The crowd in Salzburg laid out a red carpet and handed the runners certificates and badges before singing Bella Ciao and Freed From Desire and dancing a traditional “kolo” folk dance. The national anthems of Serbia and Austria were played. A letter from Dijana Hrka, the mother of one of the victims of the Novi Sad Railway Station tragedy, was read out before the student runners and the crowd observed the 16 Minutes of Silence. The crowd in Salzburg put up the names of the 16 victims before the runners arrived. Attendees expressed deep emotional support, with one woman stating, “I’m a Muslim, but I love them like my own children.” The runners have been put up in the homes of Serbians living in Austria.

May 3 | Salzburg → Munich

Crossing into Germany, the runners reached Munich. Their arrival was marked by a warm reception, featuring enthusiastic cheers, heartfelt embraces, and a poignant 18-minute silence. Among those welcoming the runners was the Deputy Mayor of Munich, who expressed admiration for their dedication and the meaningful message behind their endeavour. The event not only highlighted the students’ athletic achievements but also served as a powerful act of remembrance and solidarity. This initiative underscores the students’ commitment to using sport as a platform for commemoration and community engagement, bridging distances to honour shared histories and promote healing.

May 4 | Munich → Augsburg

The assembled crowd presented the students with a flag reading “Augsburg Stands with the Students”. The flag features two marathoners running alongside Augustus Octavian, the Roman emperor during whose reign Augsburg was founded, surrounded by petals symbolising the 16 victims of the canopy collapse. The runners also received badges bearing the same design.

May 5 | Augsburg → Ulm

As the Serbian student ultramarathon to Brussels continued its route through Germany, the City of Ulm marked a significant milestone in the journey. Mayor Martin Ansbacher formally welcomed the student runners at Ulm’s historic city square, praising their commitment to democratic values and nonviolent civic engagement.

“You deserve great respect for your dedication to building a just and democratic society,” Ansbacher said in his address. “Your journey to Brussels leaves a deep impression on all of us. It is especially important to affirm that violence against peaceful demonstrations can never be accepted. In Serbia, the right to free expression and assembly must be fully protected, as guaranteed by the European Convention on Human Rights. We must work together—courageously and with confidence—for Europe’s democratic future.” At the end of his speech, the mayor greeted the students in Serbian with their protest slogan, “Pumpaj!” (“Pump it up!”).

The students and the team accompanying them—nurses, drivers, and logistics staff—were accommodated for the night by local host families, including members of the Serbian diaspora, residents from other Balkan communities, and German families, among them local runners and marathoners.

The cities of Ulm and Neu-Ulm, in partnership with the Danube Office, jointly organized and supported the welcome event, both logistically and financially. The runners were greeted in front of Ulm Minster, the tallest church in the world with a tower rising 161 meters. Formerly a cathedral, the Minster now serves as a communal church and symbol of civic democracy. Built entirely through voluntary labor and donations from Ulm’s citizens—across all social classes—it reflects the city’s long-standing tradition of public participation. As early as the 14th century, Ulm had established a city council and a democratic voting system on matters of public importance.

The symbolic weight of the location was not lost on participants. As the runners entered the city square, they passed by the memorial and birthplace of Hans and Sophie Scholl, founders of the White Rose movement—the only organized resistance to fascism in Nazi Germany.
Historically, Ulm is also known as the departure point for the Danube Swabians, who left the city in the 17th and 18th centuries to settle in Vojvodina. Today, the city hosts the largest Danube cultural festival, organized by the Danube Office, celebrating the heritage of all ten Danube countries, including Serbia.

The collaboration for this event reflects the close relationship between Ulm, Neu-Ulm, and the City of Novi Sad, their official partner city. The reception in Ulm not only honored the runners’ mission but also underscored the importance of European solidarity, shared democratic values, and historical ties that continue to shape contemporary civic movements.

May 6 | Ulm → Stuttgart

Mihael Joukov, envoy of the Baden-Württemberg Parliament, addressed the audience as Miloš Lukić, one of the local organizers in Stuttgart, hosted the program. Joukov welcomed the students and expressed solidarity with their cause. He emphasized that Europe is closely monitoring the developments in Serbia, but due to diplomatic constraints, it cannot directly intervene. Nonetheless, he voiced his support and encouraged the students to persist in their fight for justice.

After a 16-minute silence, the names of the victims were read aloud. Simultaneously, sixteen balloons were released — one by one — each bearing the imprint of a bloody hand and a card with the name and birth year of a victim.

The symbolic act was accompanied by the haunting song “Why Are You Not Here” (Što te nema) by Jadranka Stojaković, drawing attention to the lives lost in Novi Sad on November 1st of the previous year.

In moments of such tragedy, we often hear the phrase:
“In the wrong place, at the wrong time.”

But this was neither the wrong place nor the wrong time.
This was — corruption.

No place and no moment should ever be fatal.
This installation is a reminder of the fragility of life — and the necessity of trusting in the state, its institutions, and its decisions.
To live in a country where we feel safe — not in fear.

The ribbons tying the balloons symbolized the lifelines of the victims.
We tied them to concrete.
But it was not the concrete that killed them —
It was corruption.

We cannot bring the victims back by punishing those responsible.
But we can, and must, prevent such tragedies from ever happening again.

Today, we cut the ribbons and released the balloons into the sky.
Just as lives were cut short on November 1st:
Valentina, Sara, Nemanja, Anđela, Milica, Miloš, Sanja, Mileva, Stefan, Đura, Vukašin, Vasko, Goranka, Đorđe…
and all those whose names are still unknown —
but must never be forgotten.

Thank you, students.
For your fight for justice.
For your perseverance.
For the hope you carry — that a better tomorrow is possible in Serbia.

Violinist Zorana Memedović welcomed the runners with emotional performances of “Far Away” (Tamo daleko) and “Bella Ciao”. Later, when it was revealed that one of the marathoners was a student at a music academy, Zorana handed him her violin — and he played “Far Away” once more on stage.

Another marathon student was also surprised with on-stage birthday congratulations.

All student participants received personalized gifts by name.

Related Media Coverage:

As the runners crossed into France, they arrived in Strasbourg, a symbolic step that highlighted their dedication to engaging with European institutions and promoting democratic values. On May 6, 2025, during the European Parliament’s plenary session, Serbian student protesters drew significant attention. Several of the runners attended the session, closely observing the discussions concerning the political crisis in Serbia.

May 7 | Stuttgart → Strasbourg

The group of Serbian students arrived in Strasbourg on May 7 – the 13th out of 17 European cities on their route. They ran into Place Kléber at around 8:35 p.m., accompanied by the song “In Corpore Sano” by Serbian singer Konstrakta. They were welcomed by a group of citizens, journalists, members of the Serbian diaspora from France, Germany and Switzerland, as well as local supporters. Speaking on behalf of the organisers, Marina Maletić expressed gratitude to the City of Strasbourg for welcoming Serbian students once again – first the cyclists, and now the runners. She emphasized the invaluable help of the Serbian diaspora in arranging the reception, accommodation, and meals for the runners. Deputy Mayor of Strasbourg, Véronique Bertholle, extended an official welcome on behalf of the city officials. She acknowledged the students’ dedication and courage, giving them the medals and applauded their peaceful civic action, and underscored Strasbourg’s role as a symbol of European democracy. She warmly thanked them for choosing Strasbourg again and added: “Your non-violent movement is an inspiring example of civic engagement, and I sincerely hope you will get the Nobel Peace Prize — because you truly deserve it”. She closed by wishing them strength for the final leg of their journey and encouraged them to keep going until their voices were heard in Brussels. Jana, a student from Karlsruhe, also addressed the gathering, sharing her personal connection with the movement. She recalled welcoming the cyclists a few weeks ago in Karlsruhe, and now the runners in Strasbourg. She expressed hope that they will all soon see each other again — this time in university classrooms, once the student protests in Serbia come to a successful conclusion.

May 8 | Victory in Europe Day in Strasbourg

The runners are taking a break in Strasbourg on May 8, to rest and recover before continuing their journey. Their next stop is Saarbrücken, where they are expected to arrive on May 9.

May 9 | Strasbourg → Saarbrücken

May 9 marked the 14th leg of their journey, during which they ran 115 kilometers. The students said this leg of the run was full of ups and downs, but that the weather was pleasant, and that they had a rest day the day before.

May 10 | Saarbrücken → Luxembourg

A group of ultramarathoners arrived in Luxembourg after running 93 kilometers from Saarbrücken. Their journey is part of a broader protest movement advocating for transparency, justice, and anti-corruption reforms in Serbia. Upon their arrival, they were warmly welcomed by Luxembourg Mayor Lydie Polfer, who commended their courage and commitment to democratic values. Meris Šehović, a Luxembourg MP born in Belgrade, also addressed the students, describing their efforts as a “democratic uprising” and urging them to continue their pursuit of change. The students are set to embark on the 16th and most challenging leg of their journey, crossing the Ardennes to reach Liège, Belgium.

May 11 | Luxembourg → Liège

At the impromptu reception, a protest choir sang the Serbian national anthem, followed by the student anthem. After the performances, a 16-minute silence was observed in memory of the victims of the November 1 canopy collapse at the Novi Sad Train Station.

“It was a bit exhausting, this was the longest day so far. There were a lot of uphill sections, and it wasn’t easy, but we made it. I didn’t expect a reception today, so it was amazing that there was one”, said one of the student runners.

There was a speech by Dragana Radanović from “Palac gore”, an informal group of Serbian diaspora in Brussels, and Sarah Schlitz, an MP from Liège and the leader of the Green Party group in the House of Representatives. She is a full member of the Social Affairs Committee, where she advocates for a fairer and more emancipatory society.

May 12 | Brussels Finish Line

The ultramarathon runners, a group of determined Serbian students and activists, undertook the extraordinary journey titled “Trka do Brisela” (“The Run to Brussels”). Departing from Novi Sad, Serbia, they covered more than 2,000 kilometres on foot in a relay-style run to Brussels. Their aim was to raise awareness of the erosion of democratic principles and civic freedoms in Serbia. Their run into Brussels through the triumph gate that ended in front of the European Commission’s Berlaymont building marked the symbolic culmination of a powerful appeal to European institutions to uphold democratic values and amplify the voices of young citizens striving for change.

About a thousand members of the Serbian diaspora from across various European countries, along with numerous supporters from all over the world, gathered to welcome the students upon their arrival.

The runners entered the Parc du Cinquantenaire just before 8:00 p.m., passing beneath the iconic triumphal arch and into the golden evening light – a powerful symbol of unity and victory in Europe.

The welcoming event at the Schuman Roundabout, directly in front of the Berlaymont building of the European Commission, was organised by Palac Gore, an informal network of Serbian diaspora members based in Belgium.

In addition to the efforts of the Serbian student protesters themselves, the ultramarathon was supported by a dedicated group from the Serbian diaspora, including various communities from the Netherlands, and the German city of Aachen and some of the support came even all the way from the city of Niš, south Serbia.

The programme featured both celebratory and solemn elements. Musical performances included the Blockade Choir, which sang a selection of well-known compositions that have come to symbolise the student protest movement over the past six months.

The ceremony also included several distinguished speakers who delivered heartfelt messages of support. Among them were Martin Hojsík, Vice-President of the European Parliament; Vula Tsetsi, Secretary-General of the Greens/EFA Group in the European Parliament; and Kathleen Van Brempt, Vice-Chair of the Group of the Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats in the European Parliament.

An unexpected but particularly poetic moment occurred during the vigil held in 16-minute silence to honor the 16 victims. As the moment of silence unfolded, the skies grew heavier, and rain began to fall, symbolising a powerful and emotional connection to the lives lost. The rain continued throughout the entire vigil, creating a deeply moving atmosphere. Martin Hojsík, present at the event during the vigil, remarked on the profound symbolism of this natural response to such a solemn moment, saying that “even the heaven was crying during those 16 minutes of silence”.

The arrival of the runners in Brussels marked not only the end of a physically demanding journey, but also the beginning of a renewed call for democratic accountability and civic engagement. Their perseverance and dedication captured the attention of both European officials and the wider public, highlighting the power of peaceful, youth-led activism in the face of political adversity. As their footsteps faded beneath the Arc de Triomphe in the heart of Europe, their message remained clear and resolute: the future of Serbia ought to be rooted in democracy, human rights, and the unwavering voice of its citizens.

Media Coverage of the Serbian Student Ultramarathon Protest:

Social Media Highlights:

Full speeches:

  • Martin Hojsík, Vice-President of the European Parliament Facebook Video
  • Vula Tsetsi, Secretary-General of the Greens/EFA Group in the European Parliament Instagram Post
  • Kathleen Van Brempt, Vice-Chair of the Group of the Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats in the European Parliament Instagram Post

May 13, in front of the European Parliament. Photo by Dragana Radanović