WOGI EuroTaste Ride to Launch in 2027 - A New European Journey Connecting Cycling, Food and Cities

An interview with Gabor Andras Varga, Founder of the World Gastronomy Network and Project Lead of the WOGI EuroTaste Ride

The WOGI EuroTaste Ride will take place between 1 March and 31 October 2027, marking the launch of an ambitious pan-European cycling journey that connects sustainable mobility, local gastronomy and urban wellbeing across the continent.

Originally planned earlier, the initiative has been deliberately rescheduled - not due to delays, but because the project has grown significantly in scale, ambition and strategic relevance.

Why was the WOGI EuroTaste Ride moved to 2027?

Gabor Andras Varga:

“Over the past months, it became clear that the WOGI EuroTaste Ride is far more than a cycling tour. It has evolved into a true European-scale innovation and storytelling platform, bringing together cities, universities, professional networks, food actors and EU policy objectives. A project of this magnitude deserves proper preparation.”

What exactly is the WOGI EuroTaste Ride?

“It is a pan-European gastro-cycling roadshow visiting 38 major cities, each stop built around local strengths:

• national and regional cuisines,

• local producers and chefs,

• cycling and tourism organisations,

• municipalities and urban decision-makers.

This is not a sports event. It is about everyday cycling, culture, food and liveable cities.”

How does it connect to the European innovation ecosystem?

“The WOGI EuroTaste Ride is a core implementation and communication pillar of BICO – the Bike Integrated Community Platform, a project submitted under the EIT Urban Mobility Strategic Innovation framework.

This means the Ride is embedded in:

• Living Mobility Labs in cities,

• data-driven experimentation,

• and long-term urban learning processes.

The year 2026 will therefore focus entirely on co-creation, city partnerships and detailed preparation.”

What is the value for cities and partners?

“Cities are not just hosts - they are co-creators. The initiative:

• involves no financial risk for municipalities,

• offers strong European visibility,

• and allows cities to showcase how food, mobility and tourism can reinforce each other.

It’s a collaborative European learning journey.”

What is the core message of the project?

“Our message is simple: sustainable mobility is an experience, not a sacrifice. Cycling is a gateway to local culture, food and people. In 2027, we want to tell this story across Europe.”