Isn’t it about time for a Graz Old Town Criterium again?
Dear cyclists and old town lovers, have you ever wondered why Graz no longer has its own old town criterium? A bike race right through the cobblestone alleys of the historic city center, past the Mur Island, through the colorful Lend district – that would be a real highlight! While the next criterium is taking place in Wels on July 30th, Graz just watches and only takes the bikes out of the basement for after-work rides or Sunday excursions. But why is that?
A little look back: When Graz became a cycling stronghold
In the past, Graz really was the stage for exciting bike races. Armstrong raced here. Ullrich, too. Cipollini, of course. And many honest riders with no EPO in their veins – just Styrian beans in their bellies. For a brief moment, Graz was the epicenter of road racing.. You might remember the times when riders slid through tight corners with squealing tires, the crowd cheered at every corner, and the heroes of cycling were real local heroes.
The old town criterium was not just a sporting event, but a community festival, a folk festival on two wheels. More than enough reason to inject new momentum into this tradition!
Why doesn’t the race exist anymore today?
As exciting as all this sounds, organizing races in the historic center is anything but easy. Traffic regulations, safety requirements, residents’ concerns, and immense costs make it difficult for the organizers. In addition, over the years other events have arisen that drew the interest of the city and sponsors – and Graz shifted its focus away from urban cycling events toward other sporting highlights.
That’s a shame, because a city like Graz, with its unique flair and diverse urban elements, would be the perfect place for such a race. It’s not just sweat flowing, but culture and joie de vivre pedal along too.
Why only Wels?
Wels is doing it right: on July 30th, the city invites to the city criterium, and the cycling community celebrates with it. But honestly – Graz, you’re way too beautiful to just watch! Why should only other cities get the race and attention while our narrow streets and exciting course sections remain unused? Such an event would not only attract sports enthusiasts but also many spectators, thus bringing a good dose of flair to Graz’s city center.
So, dear Graz city government, sponsors, and cycling fans: Isn’t it time to give the pedals a stage right in the middle of the city again? That would be a gain for everyone – for cycling, for the city, and for the people who want to feel the flair of a real old town criterium.
Our call to you!
Do you also think Graz deserves a bike race? Then show it! Grab your bike, ride through the pretty alleys of our city, take cool photos or videos of your tour and post them on Instagram or Bluesky with #BikeGrazKriteriumJetzt. Together we can raise awareness and maybe soon hear again the sound of squealing tires on Graz's streets!
With that said: helmet on, pump up your tires – and let’s make Graz the new hotspot for urban bike racing!
