There are those rare moments in the year when everything suddenly changes. The traffic falls silent, the noise dies down and even the otherwise hectic country roads around a big city seem empty. For many, this is the time when they sit in front of the TV, cheer fanatically, stand together in front of big screens or celebrate every goal loudly in bars. For me, it's the perfect opportunity to get on my bike.
I speak from experience. While everyone was sitting at home or in front of the screens at public viewings, I did my laps in peace at the 2024 European Championships. No honking because you're not riding on a cycle path with thousands of potholes, no cars overtaking you at far too close a distance, just peace and quiet. It was as if I had the roads all to myself. A situation that seems almost utopian in everyday life.
The underestimated side effect of football euphoria
When the German national team plays, something interesting happens on the streets: they empty out. Commuters go home earlier, weekend excursions are postponed and even the otherwise heavy traffic seems to be cancelled out. Suddenly there is a window of opportunity that can be worth its weight in gold for us cyclists. At least if, like me, you're not too keen on football.
Admittedly, many games at this World Cup are at a late hour, not necessarily ideal if you want to be out and about in the light. But the Germans' first game is this Sunday at 7pm and could hardly be better placed. It's that perfect interlude of daylight and twilight. Enough time to get on your bike for another two or three hours.
So while the majority of the nation is preparing for kick-off, putting on jerseys and getting snacks ready, I'm already rolling out of the city. Where there are usually columns of cars on the road, I can only hear the quiet whirring of my chain and the tyres on the tarmac.
Freedom that is otherwise rare
Anyone who cycles regularly knows the typical challenges: tight overtaking manoeuvres, inattentive drivers and simply an incredible amount of traffic. But during these games, all of that seems to disappear for a brief moment.
It's these moments that make it so appealing. I get a certain feeling of freedom. The smile on my face widens.
Conclusion: Just drive off!
Of course, there is a certain irony to the whole thing. While millions of people share a common experience, you consciously choose to be alone. But for me, that's precisely the appeal. It's not a sacrifice, but an exchange: volume for quiet, crowds for space.
So when the next German game comes around and the streets are slowly emptying, I don't see this as a missed opportunity, but rather an invitation. So if you can do without the World Cup matches, you should definitely give it a try.
Because when Germany plays, the street is mine. And maybe soon yours too.
Leon Weidner
Working student
