A working meeting was held at the headquarters of the Federal Ministry of Environment and Tourism in Sarajevo between the Federal Minister, Dr. Nasiha Pozder , and the President of the HerzegovinaBike Association, Toni Zorić. The meeting focused on key projects set to transform Bosnia and Herzegovina into a globally recognized cycling tourism destination in 2026.
World Elite Arriving in Sarajevo
The central topic of discussion was the first international stage cycling race, “Tour of Bosnia and Herzegovina”. President Zorić briefed the Minister on the intensive final activities, emphasizing that everything is proceeding according to plan. In less than 30 days, the race will see a spectacular start right from Sarajevo.
The race, already registered in the official calendar of the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), will gather the cycling elite from 38 countries across five continents, representing an unprecedented sporting and tourism promotion for Bosnia and Herzegovina.
„"This is a historic moment for our sport and tourism. The Tour of Bosnia and Herzegovina is more than just a race; it is a traveling postcard of our homeland that will travel the world. We are pleased that the Ministry recognizes this immense potential," Zorić stated.“, izjavio je Zorić.
As a prelude to the main event, Zorić announced a collaboration with the Olympic Committee of Bosnia and Herzegovina. One week before the race starts in Sarajevo, an official UCI training camp for the Junior and Senior National Teams of BiH will be held in Mostar. The senior team will use this camp for final preparations, training, and a detailed route inspection before the start of the Tour of BiH, further strengthening domestic cycling capacities.
Cycling Tourism as a Driver of Sustainable Development
Beyond the Tour, the meeting covered long-term strategic projects. Zorić informed the Minister about the Association's activities regarding the development of official EuroVelo route through Bosnia and Herzegovina and the ongoing application process with the European Cyclists' Federation (ECF). Success in this application would formally place BiH on the most important network of cycling routes in Europe, attracting thousands of new visitors.
Additionally, the “Giro di Ciro”project, developed with the support of the World Bank, was presented. This project focuses on the further revitalization and promotion of the historic narrow-gauge railway as a "greenway"—a unique cycling path integrating local communities and cultural heritage into a sustainable tourism offer.
A Vision for a Green Future
The activities of the HerzegovinaBike Association have been recognized as a key driver of sustainable tourism in the Federation of BiH. The development of cycling infrastructure is not merely a sporting matter but a strategic tool that brings multiple benefits:
- Economic Empowerment: Growth of small businesses through hospitality and accommodation services along the routes.
- Ecology and Health: Promotion of clean transport and a healthy lifestyle.
- International Affirmation: Positioning BiH as a modern and ecologically conscious destination.
It was concluded that the synergy between professional organizations and institutions will be crucial in transforming Bosnia and Herzegovina into a regional leader in cycling tourism, creating new opportunities for local communities through the preservation of natural heritage.
Association HerzegovinaBike
