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The KÉSZ Group and Balatonfondo courses demonstrated exemplary team spirit and achieved record attendance

Published

2026. 05. 19. 07:48

Magyar Építők

KÉSZ Csoport, Balatonfondo

This year, cyclists were welcomed to Balatonfüred with four events.

A total of 1,600 cyclists, ranging in age from two to 77, lined up at the start of Hungary’s biggest road cycling race. This year’s KÉSZ Group Balatonfondo came to a close in Balatonfüred under blazing sunshine, proving once again that this is Hungary’s cycling festival.

Taking responsibility for a community

Károly Benedikt, Director of Marketing and Corporate Communications at KÉSZ Group, emphasised: This is the third year the company has been the title sponsor of the Balatonfondó, and this commitment is taking on a more tangible form year on year. „It is a particular pleasure for us that our employees are participating more and more actively in the race – not only as entrants, but also as volunteers at the refreshment stations. As the field grows year on year, so too does the team with which we ourselves are present at this event.”

„Every year, the Balatonfondo reminds us that sport is not just about performance, but also about togetherness, setting an example and shared experiences.”

From the youngest riders to professional cyclists

Four races were held at this year’s event. The Granfondo, with its route of nearly 170 kilometres that also took runners through the hills of the Balaton Uplands, put the field to the test once again this year – but the sunny weather and the cheers from the supporters kept the atmosphere lively throughout. The Mediofondo offered a shorter alternative, whilst the Piccolo Fondo, making its debut this year as a standalone race, opened a new chapter in the event’s history: the route, starting from Vitorlás Square and suitable for the whole family, proved that the Balatonfondo’s audience can be further expanded. For the youngest participants, the Minifondo children’s race was open to all free of charge.

Unprecedented interest

The composition of this year’s field alone shows just how much this event has grown. Nearly 150 international competitors from 15 countries travelled to Lake Balaton; and among the 1,600 participants, more than 200 were women. The youngest was 2 and the oldest 77; such a wide age range can only be achieved where the organisation, the atmosphere and the route all measure up.

The Balatonfondo proved once again this year that it is not just a sporting event, but a genuine community celebration. The expo set up in Vitorlás Square welcomed visitors with open doors on both days – 30 April and 1 May – featuring stands from cycling and lifestyle brands, a programme of events and a fantastic atmosphere. The day concluded with the announcement of the results and the prize draw on the stage in Vitorlás Square.