Tour de Respect/TdRMAR - Commemorative Cycling Tour Cologne – Lille
Sport. Remembrance. Responsibility.
The Cologne–Lille Commemorative Cycling Tour is a sporting and civic initiative combining remembrance, international exchange and a clear stand against hatred and discrimination.
The tour is dedicated to Albert Richter, world champion track cyclist from Cologne. His life represents integrity, courage and moral conviction. In his memory, the project sends a strong message against antisemitism, hatred and all forms of exclusion.
A long-term initiative
The project is designed as a recurring annual format with two main elements:
May – International - 21.05.2026-22.05.2026
The international stage takes place in May, cycling from
Brussels to Lille, with participants from Germany, Belgium and France. Cologne serves as the symbolic starting point.
An
official reception in Lille, within the framework of the city partnership, is planned, followed by a joint ride with local cyclists.
October – Cologne - 11.10.2026
In October, a
public commemorative ride through Cologne takes place, open to citizens, associations and guests, bringing remembrance and civic values into the urban space.
Patronage & public engagement
The project is held under the patronage of the Mayor of the City of Cologne and places strong emphasis on public visibility, media outreach and educational engagement.
For more information or participation please contact us: info(at)tourderespect.org
-------
Archiv:
On October 12, 2025, we will start our tour around Cologne with a closing event in honor of Albert Richter.
We will start at 9:00 a.m. from Cologne Ehrenfeld in the direction of Bergisch-Gladbach.
Length of the route: approx. 70-80 km
Duration: approx. 3-4 hours (including 2 short breaks) - Average speed approx. 25-27 km/h - Elevation gain: approx. 400-500 m
The riders (m/f) will be accompanied by 2 cars.
Please register in advance at: info(at)tourderespect.org
At 3:00 p.m., there will be a closing event at Rathenauplatz in Cologne, to which everyone is cordially invited.
We look forward to seeing you there!
-------
On 12.09.24, our Tour de Respect/TdRMAR started with a 120 km tour from Strasbourg to Mulhouse. After an overnight stay in Mulhouse, the team set off on a 75 km second stage to Lörrach, where Albert Richter was murdered by the Nazis.
We were warmly welcomed by representatives of the town, the local court, the IG Velo association and other organizations in Lörrach.
Many thanks to everyone who supported us before and during this year's TdRMAR.
