Velo-city 2026: Rimini will host the world cycling summit
The European Cyclists’ Federation (ECF) announced that the City of Rimini has won the bid to host the 2026 edition of the prestigious Velo-city conference. Marking its return to Italy for the first time since 1991, ECF chose Rimini in recognition of its remarkable transformation from a car-oriented to a sustainable, liveable, and healthy city for all. The conference is scheduled to take place from 16-19 June 2026.
In its exceptional application, Rimini convened an impressive coalition of partners, including ECF’s member FIAB, which played a prominent role in securing the bid, and ANCI, the National Association of Italian Municipalities. The 2026 edition will be jointly organised by the City of Rimini, the AIM Group, and ECF.
The medium-sized Italian coastal city, known for its charm and historical heritage, faces the mobility challenges of a metropolis with 3.3 million tourists arriving every year. In response to this, Rimini has taken significant strides by initiating a comprehensive plan of urban regeneration, supported by substantial investments and concrete action. One of its flagship projects is the 15 km waterfront, where grey car-dominated infrastructure was transformed into an Urban Sea Park, making room for green areas, cycling, walking, open-air gyms, and creating more beach space. This incredible process has led to Rimini being greener than ever before and well on its way to reaching 50% of daily trips completed by cycling, walking, and public transport in 10 years, as outlined in its Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan.
Rimini stands out as an excellent example of how investing in sustainable mobility and cycling becomes a key pillar in improving citizens' health and well-being. The Bicipolitana, a 135 km network of bicycle routes connecting the sea, the city, and the countryside, further exemplifies Rimini’s commitment to sustainable mobility. The city's dedication is also evident in the implementation of the bike park strategically located in front of the train station, offering bike rentals and other services.
Rimini aims to seize the opportunity of the conference to further boost and focus its efforts on improving the city’s cycling strategy and discover innovative solutions and best practices that could inspire its actions in this direction.
This achievement confirms the engagement of Rimini in the sustainable mobility and logistics: within SPOTLOG, Rimini is developing its cyclologistics service.
Source: European Cyclists' Federation