The Wörthersee GTI-Treffen in Austria has become one of the biggest events for Volkswagen enthusiasts worldwide.
More than 200,000 people flock to Lake Wörthersee every year and the show has the official support of Volkswagen and its sister brands Audi, Seat and Skoda.
New concepts and production models are unveiled at the GTI-Treffen, while Volkswagen apprentices have the opportunity to showcase their bespoke creations.
However, despite being a regular customer of Volkswagens since 1981, the municipality of Maria Wörth has decided to no longer welcome the popular Volkswagen in the Wörthersee.Concerns about climate change and sustainability are reasons cited Cancel the event.
From Austria to the Motor City
However, it’s not all bad news. Volkswagen clearly understands how important the Wörthersee GTI-Treffen is to thousands of fans. Cars on display at the festival include a Volkswagen Up GTI, a Seat Leon ST Cupra 280, and even a 600-horsepower Audi TT Clubsport Turbo concept.
To continue the love for the GTI, Volkswagen is now planning its own festival in Wolfsburg, close to the company’s main factory.
It will use the space around the Motorstadt Museum, which houses a pavilion dedicated to the Volkswagen Group brand.
Bring the GTI home
From 2024, the GTI Homecoming event will feature vehicle launches, stage performances and club displays. Volkswagen also promises “fun events and surprises” for the tuning world.
“Our GTI fans are very important to Volkswagen, which is why it is important for us to communicate with them,” said Imelda Labbé, member of the Volkswagen Board of Management.
“For this reason, after the unfortunate cancellation of the GTI conference at Lake Wörthersee, we quickly decided to offer the GTI fan community in Wolfsburg a new venue. When planning the event, we also wanted to take the fans’ ideas into account , because this should be their party first. Therefore, we will definitely be able to provide some highlights and surprises in the coming year.”
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Wörthersee to Wolfsburg: Volkswagen GTI festival is coming home