Official launch of the EuroVelo 8 – Mediterranean Route, İzmir, which promotes creation, support and operation of a sustainable Trans-European Transport Network in whole European Continent, was held with participation of İzmir Metropolitan Municipality Mayor, Tunç Soyer.

In the ceremony held in Antic City of Teos in Seferihisar, Mayor Tunç Soyer said, “Cycling reminds sports and health. But aside being a mean of transportation, it has also transformed into a sustainable instrument of tourism.” 

Stating that EuroVelo is an extraordinary strong prestige brand, Mayor Tunç Soyer added, “only İzmir entering EuroVelo network from Turkey and inclusion of 500 km Ephesus-Pergamon route into this international network is a real pride for the city. I would like to thank especially İzmir Metropolitan Municipality Transportation Office that enabled this. And I wish new routes will be added to international routes under this international brand.” 

A video by Christopher Najdovski, Chairman of European Cyclists Federation (ECF) and Deputy Mayor of Paris, was broadcasted in the program. After that, Feridun Ekmekçi and Adnan Cangır presented İzmir Metropolitan Mayor Tunç Soyer a plaque of appreciation on behalf of The Association of Energy Efficiency and Environment Protection (ENVERÇEVKO), the National EuroVelo Coordinator of Turkey. The cyclists participating the bicycle tour between Teos Antic City and Azmak Bay pedalled for approximately 17 km.

European Cyclists Federation had accepted the request of İzmir for inclusion of 500 km bicycle route connecting Ancient Cities Pergamon and Ephesus last year.