Taking place from 13 to 16 June 2028, the event will bring together policymakers, researchers, advocates, and industry leaders for a dynamic exchange on the future of cycling in a city renowned for its commitment to sustainable, cross-border mobility.
Geneva’s selection follows a highly competitive bidding process, which originally saw the city apply to host the 2027 edition. The strength of its bid and its vision for cycling convinced the ECF Board to award Geneva the 2028 edition, ensuring that the city’s ambitious plans for cycling infrastructure and policy will be showcased on a global stage.
“We are excited to bring Velo-city to Geneva in 2028. Geneva’s commitment to sustainable urban mobility in an integrated and cross-border context, combined with its international profile, makes it an outstanding host for the conference. We look forward to working closely with Geneva to create an inspiring and impactful event.”
– Jill Warren, CEO of the European Cyclists’ Federation
Geneva has been actively developing its cycling infrastructure since the 1980s, fostering a vibrant and deeply rooted local cycling community. In recent years, progress has accelerated with temporary “covid lanes” becoming permanent and a growing commitment to cleaner, healthier urban environments. Today, more than 60% of Geneva’s roads are adapted for cyclists, and the multi-level support for cycling is boosting this further.
Nationally, the Swiss Confederation’s Cycle Pact Act mandates cities to develop high-quality cycling networks. Geneva, a leading canton, is implementing its 2024-2028 Active Mobility Action Plan, which includes 12 major cycle routes and greenways to promote cycling as a viable alternative to car commuting and reduce carbon emissions.
“Velo-city Forum in 2028 will highlight the region’s progress in active mobility. This forum is part of Geneva’s commitment to a transition to modes of transport better suited to short distances, notably through the Active Mobility Plan. The theme ‘Beyond Borders’ clearly illustrates Geneva’s desire to be a hub for cross-border cooperation and innovation.”
– Pierre Maudet, State Councillor, State of Geneva
“Velo-city fits in perfectly with the City of Geneva’s Climate Strategy, which aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 60% by 2030. In terms of mobility, the 2028 Congress will be a tremendous boost for soft mobility, particularly active mobility such as cycling.“
– Alfonso Gomez, member of the Geneva city Executive Council, in charge of Environment
With a border stretching over 100 kilometres with France, Geneva works closely with its French neighbours to advance sustainable, cross-border mobility. The main Velo-city 2028 theme Beyond Borders highlights the work of the Greater Geneva partnership, representing more than 1 million people, who set an ambitious goal to triple cycling’s modal share by 2050 and develop a seamless, multimodal transport network. A flagship initiative is the Léman Express, launched in 2019, which already connects 45 train stations across the region and is complemented by an expanding network of cycle paths and bike stations.
