ROTTERDAM, 1 August 2025 – Registration has opened for the 35th edition of the Roparun, an annual relay that finishes in the heart of Rotterdam. The multi-day charity event supports those living with cancer through community effort and endurance.
Image: Roparun. Photo credit: Harry van 't Veld.
Registration now open for 2026 Roparun relay
The registration period for the 35th edition of the Roparun has officially begun. Teams from the Netherlands, Belgium and France are now able to sign up for the event, which will take place over the Whitsun weekend in 2026.
Scheduled from Saturday 23 May to Monday 25 May 2026, the event will once again offer two starting points: Vliegveld Twenthe in the Netherlands and Clastres in northern France. Participants will finish on the Binnenrotte in central Rotterdam, a key element of the route that underscores the city’s long-standing connection to the Roparun.
A long-distance relay with a local finish
The Roparun is a non-stop relay event where teams cover more than 500 kilometres by running and cycling. Each team typically includes around 25 members, comprising not only runners and cyclists but also support staff such as masseurs, caterers and drivers.
Rotterdam’s role as the finish location brings thousands of people together to witness teams cross the line near the Markthal. For many, it is a poignant end to months of preparation and fundraising, all aimed at supporting individuals affected by cancer.
Supporting cancer care through teamwork
In the lead-up to the event, teams organise a variety of local fundraising initiatives. The money raised is distributed by Stichting Roparun to projects that improve the quality of life for people with cancer. This includes furnishing hospices, funding holidays for ill children, and providing long-term support for Dutch wish ambulances (wensambulances).
More than 150 projects receive support each year from the foundation.
Roparun director: ‘It’s more than a sporting event’
According to Lesly Wolters, director of the Roparun, the event offers more than just athletic achievement. “The Roparun is an experience that connects people, challenges limits and shows what’s possible when people come together,” she said.
She added that teams prepare for months—not only to complete the 500-kilometre route—but to make a meaningful contribution. “With registration now open for this anniversary edition, I warmly invite both new and returning teams to be part of this event,” she said.
Wolters concluded by saying that everyone should take part at least once in their lifetime.
Registration details
Teams can register until 31 December 2025. More information and the registration form are available at www.roparun.nl/deelnemen.
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