For over 40 years, the European Cyclists’ Federation's (ECF) mission has been to encourage and coordinate knowledge exchange on bicycle-related policies and strategies. Velo-city, an ECF core activity since 1980, has been crucial in implementing this mission to promote more and better cycling for all in Europe. The annual conference is an essential platform for promoting policy and knowledge exchange, involving 400 selected speakers and inspiring over 1500 participants from 60+ countries.

Anna-Karina Reibold, representing Velo-city 2023 Leipzig at the award ceremony, stated, "We're thrilled that the 2023 edition of our annual world cycling summit, Velo-city, was selected as a finalist for the Incredible Impacts Programme. More than just an event, Velo-city serves as a catalyst for change, dedicated to promoting cycling and active mobility. This recognition stands as a testament to the positive impact Velo-city 2023 has made in Leipzig and beyond, underscoring the collaborative efforts of ECF, the city of Leipzig and Leipziger Messe."

The nomination for the Incredible Impacts Programme mirrors the lasting legacy of Velo-city 2023, contributing to the development of active mobility in Leipzig and far beyond.  Velo-city is where advocates, cities, policymakers, researchers and industry leaders meet to shape the future of cycling and sustainable urban development.

(Photo: Velo-city 2023 Leipzig. Credit: The European Cyclist' Federation)

Notable achievements included a significant commitment by government and city officials to increase the cycling modal share in the host city. The conference marked the inauguration of Leipzig’s first superblock. Following the transformation of one car lane into a bike lane, cycling became possible on the inner-city ring for the first time since 1975. Additionally, 16 mayors agreed to make cycling a fully-fledged mode of transport.

In the month leading up to the conference, significant improvements were made to cycling infrastructure, including the opening of 10 smart bike garages at train stations and 10.6km of new bike lanes.

The Velo-city conference was a success, with 45% of speakers on stage being women. The conference effectively demonstrated a firm commitment to reflecting our cycling community and the Velo-citizens involved.

Last but not least, thousands of locals came together for the bike festival during Velo-city, representing a great opportunity for citizens of all ages and abilities in the host city to dust off their bikes and safely (re-)discover the joy of cycling – riding together to reclaim space for people!

ECF also wishes to congratulate the winner of the Incredible Impacts programme, Associated Country Women of the World and fellow finalists, the British Society of Soil Science, for their work.

Read more about the ICCA and BestCities Global Alliance Incredible Impacts Programme 2023.

(Cover Photo Credits: The European Cyclists' Federation)