Laziest Citizen Showdown: Inside Montenegro's Unique Contest of Endurance

Seven competitors lying down on mats are vying for the coveted title of “Laziest Citizen” in a satirical contest held annually in a holiday resort in northern Montenegro. The contest, now in its 12th edition, has gained attention for its unique premise and humorous take on stereotypes about Montenegrins being lazy.

Last year, a record of 117 hours of lying down was set during the competition in Brezna. As this year’s contest entered its 20th day, surpassing the previous record, the remaining contestants expressed their determination to keep going. The participants, who have been lying down for over 463 hours collectively, are following strict rules that require them to remain lying down on mats, with standing or sitting leading to immediate disqualification.


Dubravka Aksic, the champion from 2021, emphasized the contestants' well-being, stating, "All of us feel good, excellent, there are no health problems, they are pampering us, all we have to do is to remain lying down." The organizer and resort owner, Radonja Blagojevic, explained that the competition was initially created to mock the stereotype of laziness attributed to Montenegrins, turning it into a lighthearted and popular event.

Participants are allowed brief toilet breaks every eight hours, but apart from that, they must stay in a horizontal position on their mats. They can also use electronic devices like phones and laptops to pass the time during the contest. This year’s line-up includes a mix of experienced competitors and first-timers like Filip Knezevic, a 23-year-old contestant from Mojkovac, who expressed his confidence in winning the 1,000-euro prize.

With the competition heating up and spectators eagerly watching the unconventional event unfold, the participants continue to showcase their endurance and resilience in the quest to be crowned the "Laziest Citizen." The humorous and light-hearted nature of the contest adds a unique and engaging element to the holiday resort in Montenegro, challenging stereotypes and bringing the community together in a spirit of fun and camaraderie.

Posted in Entertainment Culture & Travel by Quynh Nguyen