HARLEY-DAVIDSON CONFIRMS PLANS TO GO AHEAD WITH EUROPEAN BIKE WEEK IN AUSTRIA, THIS SEPTEMBER
Harley-Davidson® is delighted to confirm that the annual European Bike Week® will take place around Lake Faak in Carinthia, Austria, from September 7-12, 2021.
OXFORD, UK (June 2021) – Following a series of positive announcements by the Austrian government regarding the COVID-19 pandemic and the continued lifting of restrictions in that country, Harley-Davidson® is delighted to confirm that the annual European Bike Week® will take place around Lake Faak in Carinthia, Austria, from September 7-12, 2021.
After a relaxation of restrictions in Austria in May following a continued downward trend in cases, and Federal Chancellor Sebastian Kurz’s promise to get back to “back to normality, freedom, a normal life” as soon as possible, the date for the latest easing of restrictions in June was brought forward by a week. Now, most social, work and travel restrictions – including international travel - are planned to be relaxed over the summer. Austria’s vaccination program has also made huge progress, with Federal Minister of Social Affairs, Health, Care and Consumer Protection Wolfgang Mückstein stating on June 8 that the country has “already been able to provide protective vaccination to half of the vaccine-eligible population… making further relaxations possible”.
Confidence in making this announcement has also been reinforced by the local government: “The news from the Austrian Government sounds positive and we are looking forward to the return of European Bike Week in a safe way. This should allow our local businesses to re-open fully and all our visitors to enjoy one of Austria’s most scenic regions once again. Carinthia, and especially the region around Faaker See, is very proud of its long association with European Bike Week, and we’re excited to welcome riders back in September 2021”, said Christian Poglitsch, mayor of Finkenstein am Faaker See.
Kolja Rebstock, Harley-Davidson’s Regional Vice President, Managing Director of EMEA and Managing Director of DACH, added: “I am delighted that European Bike Week can go ahead this year, and would like to say a big thank you to all of our team and our local partners who make European Bike Week happen. And of course, thank you to all the riders who make it the huge success that it has always been. Events are at the heart of our lifestyle, culture and identity and we can’t wait until September 7 and the start of European Bike Week 2021.
Harley-Davidson will continue to responsibly review any restrictions on gatherings or travel that may be reintroduced in Austria or surrounding countries closer to the date, and will amend the event format as necessary, but we remain committed to reigniting the passion and freedom of motorcycle events as soon as realistically possible. Watch out for more details about European Bike Week 2021 very soon.
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About Harley-Davidson
Harley-Davidson, Inc. is the parent company of Harley-Davidson Motor Company and Harley-Davidson Financial Services. Our vision: Building our legend and leading our industry through innovation, evolution and emotion. Our mission: More than building machines, we stand for the timeless pursuit of adventure. Freedom for the soul. Since 1903, Harley-Davidson has defined motorcycle culture with an expanding range of leading-edge, distinctive and customizable motorcycles in addition to riding experiences and exceptional motorcycle accessories, riding gear and apparel. Harley-Davidson Financial Services provides financing, insurance and other programs to help get Harley-Davidson riders on the road. Learn more at www.harley-davidson.com.
About European Bike Week
First held in 1998 and run annually until 2020’s postponement due to COVID-19, European Bike Week is the largest free motorcycle festival in Europe – sponsored and organised by Harley-Davidson, but involving riders of all motorcycle brands. Its cultural resonance for the motorcycle community across Europe and the world combines with a significant economic impact in the Austrian region of Carinthia, making the event an important annual milestone.
Press Contact: jenni.coats@harley-davidson.com
