Netherlands to host European Road Championships in 2028 as part of KNWU centenary

The announcement on Wednesday establishes North Brabant as the first participating province in what the KNWU calls the "Dutch Cycling Festival" - a year-long program celebrating 100 years since the union's founding on 26 January 1928.

"The European Road Cycling Championships, BMX Freestyle and the Cyclo-cross World Championships will take place in North Brabant in 2028," the Dutch cycling union announced in a press release.

Rather than concentrating events into a short period, the Dutch Cycling Festival will feature championships distributed throughout the country during the Olympic year. These events aim to serve dual purposes as both competitive platforms and catalysts for community engagement.

"It is not a traditional event of a few days or weeks, but a series of championships spread across the country," the KNWU explained. "The races are not only a stage for top performances, but also catalysts for social and community projects to get more people moving, and in particular more children on bicycles."

KNWU Director Maurice Leeser highlighted the broader social impact of hosting these prestigious competitions.

"Cycling connects people, gives freedom and contributes to a healthy society. It is fantastic that the province of North Brabant and partners are a prominent part of the Dutch Cycling Festival, by hosting no fewer than three top sports events in 2028," said Leeser. "Together with our riders, cycling clubs, volunteers and partners, we show how (top) sport, fun and social impact can go hand in hand."

The selection of North Brabant holds particular significance in Dutch cycling heritage. According to the KNWU, the choice was "no coincidence" as "Brabant was the beating heart of Dutch cycling for a long time. The passion for cycling is deeply rooted in Brabant culture."

With these championships, the Netherlands positions itself as the focal point of international cycling during 2028, combining elite competition with grassroots initiatives to promote cycling participation across the country.

Slovenia will host the 2026 edition of the UEC European Road Championships in the capital of Ljubljana, whilst the hosts for 2027 have yet to be confirmed.