The Wörthersee GTI-Treffen in Austria rose to become one of the largest events for Volkswagen enthusiasts in the world.
More than 200,000 people flocked to Lake Wörthersee every year, with the show gaining official support from Volkswagen, along with its sister brands: Audi, Seat and Skoda.
New concept cars and production models were unveiled at the GTI-Treffen, while Volkswagen apprentices had a chance to show-off their custom creations.
However, despite being a fixture of the VW scene since 1981, the municipality of Maria Wörth has decided hot Volkswagens are no longer welcome in Wörthersee. Concerns about climate change and sustainability were the reasons cited for cancelling the event.
From Austria to Autostadt
It’s not all bad news, however. Volkswagen clearly understands just how important the Wörthersee GTI-Treffen is to thousands of enthusiasts. Cars revealed at the festival have included the Volkswagen Up GTI, Seat Leon ST Cupra 280 and even a 600hp Audi TT Clubsport Turbo concept.
To continue the GTI love, Volkswagen now plans to host its own festival in Wolfsburg, close to the company’s main factory.
It will use the space surrounding the Autostadt museum, which has special pavilions dedicated to the Volkswagen Group brands.
Bringing the GTI home
From 2024, the GTI Coming Home event will host vehicle launches, stage shows and club displays. Volkswagen also promises ‘interesting events and surprises’ for the modified car community.
“Our GTI fans are of great importance to Volkswagen and that’s why the exchange with them is very dear to us,” says Imelda Labbé, member of the board of management at Volkswagen.
“For this reason, after the GTI Meeting at Lake Wörthersee was unfortunately cancelled, we decided pretty quickly to offer the GTI fan community in Wolfsburg a new home for the event. When planning the event, we also want to take into account the ideas of the fans, because it should above all be a meeting for them. Accordingly, we will certainly be able to offer some highlights and surprises in the coming year.”
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