V4 Cycling Race Kicks off in Budapest this Weekend
The Visegrad Four Bicycle Race, organized by Hungary, Slovakia, the Czech Republic, and Poland for the 10th time since 2013, is set to kick off with the Budapest-Pannonhalma stage this Saturday. This annual cycling event not only showcases sporting excellence but also highlights the cooperation between the V4 countries.
During a press conference in Budapest, Boglárka Illés, the State Secretary for Bilateral Relations at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, emphasized the significance of this race in promoting unity among Central European nations. She noted that the V4 cooperation has played a crucial role historically and will continue to do so in the present and future.
Illés highlighted that the Visegrad Group, established in 1991, has been instrumental in fostering economic relations, political representation, and preserving cultural values in Central Europe. As Hungary prepares to assume the V4 presidency, the bicycle race serves as a fitting prelude to this upcoming leadership role.
Domonkos Schneller, President of the Hungarian Cycling Federation, praised the combination of V4 cooperation and cycling, describing it as a recipe for success. He credited the recent Giro d’Italia start in Budapest for elevating Hungary’s status in the international cycling arena.
The race, which will feature 26 teams from 8 nations, including professional, club, and national teams, holds significance for Hungarian cyclists aiming to improve their international rankings. The Budapest-Pannonhalma stage will cover 138.5 kilometers, culminating at the historic Pannonhalma Archabbey in northwestern Hungary.
With over 20 Hungarian cyclists participating, the event not only promises excitement and competition but also serves as a platform to strengthen friendships and promote unity among the V4 countries. As the cyclists embark on this challenging journey, they carry with them the spirit of camaraderie and the values of cooperation that define the Visegrad Four alliance.
Through initiatives like the Visegrad Four Bicycle Race, these nations continue to showcase the power of collaboration and mutual support, transcending boundaries and fostering a sense of community among Central European countries.
