2026 European Cycling Capital Year and Velespit Museum Opening Celebrated with Enthusiasm

The Velespit Museum, brought to life by Konya Metropolitan Municipality as part of the 2026 European Capital of Cycling Year, has been officially inaugurated.

As part of the program, a cycling event was held, starting at the Konya Panorama Museum and concluding at Kılıçarslan Square.

Following the cycling tour, Konya Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Uğur İbrahim Altay delivered a speech at the opening of the Velespit Museum, which was brought to the city by Konya Metropolitan Municipality. He expressed his satisfaction that Konya, holding the title of 2026 European Capital of Cycling, is known for its strong association with youth and sports and for taking a leading role in this field.

Continuing his remarks by outlining the concept and content of the Velespit Museum, Uğur İbrahim Altay said, “The Velespit Museum is the first venue of its kind to be opened in Turkey. The name ‘Velespit’ comes from the word Konya residents use for bicycles. Moreover, this is not merely a space to walk through and observe. With dedicated activity areas, especially for children, our city will gain a living museum that actively engages its visitors.”

President of the Federation of European Capitals and Cities Gian Francesco Lupatelli recalled that the title of European Capital of Cycling was held by Manchester last year and said, “This year, the title continues with Konya, and Konya is number one in this field. You are number one in the world; you are Europe’s best sports capital. Such strong public participation is extremely important. As we always say, ‘sport is for everyone.’ As the 2026 European Capital of Cycling, the Mayor of Konya Metropolitan Municipality will be responsible for determining the candidate cycling capitals for a five-year period between 2026 and 2031. Thank you all very much.”

Following the speeches, ACES Board President Gian Francesco Lupatelli presented the official certificate confirming the 2026 European Capital of Cycling title to Konya Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Uğur İbrahim Altay.

With this certificate, Mayor Altay will have a say in the selection of future European Capital of Cycling candidates to be chosen through 2031.

Later, 42 cyclists who took part in the cycling tour were awarded bicycles through a lottery draw. Protocol members then toured the Velespit Museum and received information about its exhibits and concept.