World Association of Cycling Events

Promoting Cycling Around the World

WACE — the World Association of Cycling Events — was formed in Rome on July 24, 2015, to promote and increase cycling globally. The association brings together six of the most prestigious mass participation cycling events, attracting more than 200,000 participants from 90 countries each year.

From the legendary 300 km Vätternrundan in Sweden to the Cape Town Cycle Tour in South Africa, WACE member events represent the very best in international cycling.

The World Association of Cycling Events brings together some of the most celebrated mass participation rides on the planet. Founded by a shared vision to grow cycling culture across borders, the association connects iconic events that have each shaped the sport in their own regions for decades. These gatherings attract riders of all abilities, from seasoned competitors to first-time participants, united by a common love for two wheels and open roads.

Mass participation cycling events offer something that professional races cannot replicate: the chance for everyday riders to experience closed roads, festival atmospheres, and the camaraderie of thousands moving together. Whether climbing mountain passes or cruising coastal highways, participants discover the joy of riding in settings normally reserved for elite competition. The energy at the start line and the shared sense of accomplishment at the finish create memories that last a lifetime.

Cycling is one of the most accessible and sustainable forms of movement, and promoting it globally means investing in healthier communities and cleaner cities. When people take up cycling, they not only improve their own fitness and wellbeing but also contribute to reduced traffic congestion and lower emissions. Mass events serve as powerful entry points, inspiring individuals to rediscover their streets and neighborhoods on two wheels long after the event weekend ends.

The member events within the association each carry their own distinct character, shaped by local landscapes, history, and community spirit. Some trace routes through ancient cities with cobbled streets and grand monuments, while others sweep through dramatic countryside, along lake shores, or around rugged coastlines. Despite their differences, all share a commitment to excellence in organization, rider safety, and the celebration of cycling as a unifying force.

International participation is at the heart of the association's mission. Riders travel across continents to take on new challenges, experiencing different cultures from the seat of a bicycle. This cross-border movement of cyclists fosters understanding and friendship between nations, proving that sport can bridge divides. The shared language of cycling — the rhythm of pedaling, the nod between riders — transcends any cultural or linguistic barrier.

Organizing a large-scale cycling event demands meticulous planning, from route design and road closures to medical support and volunteer coordination. The association provides a platform for knowledge sharing among event organizers, helping each member learn from the successes and challenges of others. This collaborative approach raises standards across the board, ensuring that every participant enjoys a safe, well-supported, and unforgettable experience.

The growth of cycling as a global pastime depends on welcoming new riders into the fold. Mass participation events are increasingly designing shorter routes, family-friendly rides, and beginner programs that lower the barrier to entry. By creating inclusive environments where everyone feels capable and encouraged, the cycling community expands organically, passing the joy of riding from one generation to the next.

Looking ahead, the association continues to champion cycling as more than just a sport — it is a lifestyle, a mode of transport, and a tool for positive change. Through collaboration, promotion, and the enduring appeal of its member events, the organization works to ensure that cycling flourishes in every corner of the world, inspiring millions more to swing a leg over a saddle and discover the freedom of the road.