Online registration for the Cologne cycling classic opened on 7 July. More than half of the available places have already been taken. By way of comparison: last year, only 1,800 participants had registered by the same time. Current demand exceeds last year’s figure by more than 165 per cent.
Velodom registration figures
The Velodom 120 offers 5,000 places, of which 2,600 have already been taken. There are 4,500 places available for the Velodom 60, 2,180 of which have already been allocated. Markus Frisch, Managing Director of Kölner AusdauerSport GmbH, recommends registering as soon as possible. The 2026 event was already sold out months in advance.
Velodom track profiles
In 2026, the Velodom 120 covered around 1,200 metres of elevation gain, whilst the Velodom 60 route covered around 500 metres. Route changes and adjusted start times are possible for 2027. The organiser will announce further details at a later date.
History of the Cologne Area
With its origins dating back to 1908, the “Rund um Köln” looks back on a proud history and is regarded as the oldest surviving one-day race in Germany. What began as a race for professionals only has, over time, been expanded to include a recreational race for all sports enthusiasts – today’s Velodom. This move towards grassroots sport proved a resounding success: the event now regularly attracts around 10,000 participants, making it one of Germany’s most popular cycling events. The routes start and finish at Cologne’s Rheinauhafen, where thousands of spectators create a lively atmosphere. From there, the route leads out of the flat Rhine valley directly into the hilly Bergisches Land. Gruelling climbs, such as the dreaded ascent up the Agathaberg with gradients of up to 27 per cent, push the riders to their absolute limits. The absolute highlight, however, is the legendary cobbled section leading up to Bensberg Castle – an energy-sapping centrepiece of the race that remains etched in the memory of everyone who has conquered it. Thanks to the new start arrangements, the situation on the route has also eased, following occasional traffic jams at Bensberg Castle.
Kristian Bauer
Editor
