Rescheduling to later date is under consideration
The next major event in Frankfurt has fallen victim to the corona virus: The Society for the Promotion of Cycling, together with the City of Frankfurt am Main and the City of Eschborn, has decided to cancel the traditional race on May 1. However, the 59th edition of the Eschborn-Frankfurt cycling race could take place later in the year. Whether this would be feasible is currently being examined. All parties involved agree that it is not possible to hold the cycling classic in the current situation, especially as it is still completely uncertain how long the virus will continue to cause the necessary restrictions.
As uncertain as many things may be at the moment, one thing is certain: the health of the athletes, participants, visitors and guests of the Cycling Classic is the top priority. "With this decision, we are doing our part to slow down the spread of the coronavirus. We are aware of our social responsibility, because May 1st has been a cycling holiday for over 50 years. But currently, a carefree, communal celebration of cycling is not possible," says Claude Rach, Managing Director of the Society for the Promotion of Cycling. "Our close and trusting partnership with Eschborn, Frankfurt and our partners is proving itself right now. In these days, which present us all with enormous challenges, we have come to a quick unanimous decision. For this I would like to thank Mr. Shaikh and Mr. Frank as well as our municipal partners of Team Taunus and sponsors," Rach continued.
In a joint statement, Adnan Shaikh, Mayor of the City of Eschborn, and Markus Frank, City Councillor and Head of Department for Economy, Sports, Safety and Fire Services of the City of Frankfurt am Main, say: "The cancellation of our cycling classic on May 1 is one of the measures we are taking to limit the spread of the coronavirus. It serves the safety of all citizens. The current challenge requires the full concentration of our authorities. With the early decision to postpone the cycling classic, we are relieving the burden on the employees of the local authorities involved in the planning of Eschborn-Frankfurt. Health offices, licensing authorities, police and fire brigade make an enormous contribution in this exceptional situation."
In addition to the professional race, the four competitions of the ŠKODA Velotour and the 13 other events of the cycling classic will not take place on May 1. It is currently being examined with the relevant authorities and the cycling world governing body UCI whether and when in September or October of this year and, if so, with what adjustments Eschborn-Frankfurt and the ŠKODA Velotour can be held. For participants of the ŠKODA Velotour, an overview of the ŠKODA Velotour will be available immediately on www.skoda-velotour.de has provided an overview of the most important questions.
