Starting signal for Carinthia200: Villach positions itself as Austria’s new road cycling capital
Villach, 19 December 2025 – With Carinthia200, the Villach – Faaker See – Ossiacher See region is sending a strong strategic signal to the European road-cycling community. The inaugural edition will take place on 31 May 2026, guiding ambitious road cyclists across distances of 125, 155 and 200 kilometres through Carinthia’s most impressive alpine and lake landscapes.
Carinthia200 stands for a premium event concept with a clear focus on quality, safety and experience. Fully closed roads, professional race operations and a high-end host setup create the framework for a road-cycling event that consistently combines athletic challenge with an authentic alpine lifestyle. The start and finish are located in the city of Villach—embedded in a region that offers an exceptional stage of lakes and mountains.
Ambitious objectives
“Carinthia200 was designed to become Austria’s largest road-cycling race. Our objective is to position Villach and the surrounding region sustainably as Austria’s leading road-cycling destination,” explains Julius Rupitsch, Event Director of Carinthia200 and organizer of the Wörthersee Gravel Race and Istria300. “We think long term, brand-driven, and with a clear quality promise to participants, partners and the region.”
Sporting expertise as a foundation
The sporting concept is led by Patrick Schörkmayer, Race Director of Carinthia200 and long-time Race Director of IRONMAN Kärnten, Klagenfurt – Austria: “The course concept combines athletic challenge, safety and outstanding scenery. With three distances, we address performance-oriented athletes as well as ambitious amateur riders. Carinthia200 represents a modern road-cycling experience at the highest organizational level.”
Strong alignment with the Region of Villach
The Region of Villach sees Carinthia200 as a strategic pillar of its tourism positioning. Georg Overs, CEO of Region Villach Tourismus GmbH, highlights the project’s importance: “Carinthia200 fits perfectly into our brand world and strengthens our positioning as a Lake.Bike destination. The event combines international appeal with strong regional identity. Our ambition is clear: Villach should be perceived as Austria’s road-cycling capital—and Carinthia200 is a key driver to achieve this.”
The event concept
Carinthia200 stands for a clear brand attitude and storytelling rooted in Carinthia. The focus is on individuality, personal challenge and identification with the region. The slogan “It’s my ride”—a conscious reference to Carinthia’s guiding motto “It’s my life”—captures this philosophy: every participation is a personal decision, every route an individual experience.
Comprehensive supporting program
The sporting event is complemented by a high-quality expo, side events, recovery and service offerings, as well as a holistic hospitality concept for participants and accompanying guests. The goal is to establish Carinthia200 as a recurring signature event in the Alpe-Adria region and to generate sustainable tourism value.
