The recent decision by the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) to name Škoda as the Official Partner of the UCI Mountain Bike and Gravel World Championships for 2025 and 2026 has resonated strongly within the global cycling community, and its positive impact has been felt in Bosnia and Herzegovina as well.
Following this direction, Continental Blidinje BIKE Festival has further strengthened its connection with international cycling trends and proudly announces that will be the official vehicle of the 2025 festival Škoda. This collaboration has been made possible through a partnership with Apolo d.o.o. Mostar, the authorized Škoda vehicle distributor for Herzegovina, who recognized the significance of the largest cycling festival in Bosnia and Herzegovina and its contribution to promoting active tourism, natural beauty, and the sporting spirit of the region.
Škoda, as a renowned car manufacturer, with more than 20 years of experience sponsoring top-tier cycling events – including Tour de France, La Vueltathe Tour de France, La Vuelta, and now the UCI World Championships – perfectly aligns with the vision of our festival: to encourage an active lifestyle, sport, tourism, sustainable development, and a love for nature.
“We are proud to follow the example set by the UCI and to build an even stronger infrastructure and image for the Continental Blidinje BIKE Festival with a brand like Škoda. Our partnership with Apolo d.o.o. Mostar further confirms that local partners can and want to be part of events that meet European and global standards," stated Toni Zorić, President of the Cycling Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina and Festival Director.
From 11 to 13 July 2025, Blidinje Nature Park will once again host hundreds of cyclists and nature lovers, with Škoda vehicles playing both a logistical and symbolic role in this internationally recognized event.
By aligning with the UCI’s vision of sustainability, innovation, and a thriving cycling community, both HerzegovinaBike and Continental Blidinje BIKE Festival demonstrate that they are moving in step with global trends in the development of sport and the promotion of a healthy lifestyle.
About HerzegovinaBike
HerzegovinaBike HerzegovinaBike is a non-profit organization dedicated to the development and promotion of cycling and active tourism in Herzegovina. Through initiatives like the Ciro Trail, numerous cycling events, and close cooperation with local communities, the organization enhances tourism offerings, supports environmental conservation, and promotes healthier lifestyles. HerzegovinaBike actively works with both domestic and international partners to make cycling more accessible, safer, and recognized as a key form of recreation, sport, and sustainable mobility. More information: www.herzegovinabike.ba
About Škoda
This year, the Czech carmaker Škoda is celebrating 130 years since its founding. The company’s origins date back to 1895, when Václav Laurin and Václav Klement began producing bicycles in Mladá Boleslav. In modern times, Škoda Auto has been actively involved in professional cycling for over 20 years. Last year, the brand extended its partnership with A.S.O., the organiser of elite races including the Tour de France, until 2028. In addition, Škoda supports the women’s Tour de France Femmes avec Zwiftand many other prestigious races such as La Vuelta Ciclista a España and La Flèche Wallonne. More information: www.skoda-auto.com
