“Wheels and Waves” is the most famous café racer and Kustom Kulture event and perhaps the great precursor of those who only knew how to imitate a style and an atmosphere, which was a counter-reference cultural. After complications due to the pandemic to celebrate the 10th edition and make this event a big party, this year the French government banned its celebration due to the Covid-19 pandemic. It was scheduled to take place from June 30 to July 4.
In a press release, the organizers of Wheels & Waves announced the ban: “ At a time when the government is encouraging cultural openings, artistic deconfinements, and event resumptions, the roads suddenly stop for Wheels & Waves 10th edition. »
That same week, the organization continued to post communications on social media as it held negotiations with French authorities, but ultimately a firm decision was made to ban it.
“After weeks of ups and downs, of discussions as contrasting and hilly as the Basque landscapes in which the festival was born 10 years ago, the weather had returned to good weather, but unfortunately, here we are today BANNED. The decision came and it hurt us a lot, it must be said that we were leaning into the last turn and at full speed, three weeks before the launch.
The event is BANNED, and so are we. Sad and bruised to see this birthday that we worked so hard on extinguish its candles before we could even blow them out together. Also perplexed by these doors which closed violently and suddenly, there was however no contrary wind or draft to announce it...
Thank you all for simply wanting us to exist for a long time, in this kind of moment, it is good to be with family. In any case, the year is not over for Wheels & Waves which is considering other horizons as freedom... so as not to experience the ban in Biarritz as a death but as an obstacle to be overcome.
We will keep you informed, in the meantime ride, surf, skate, work in your workshops, live so that we live and stay connected to continue to live new adventures, new experiences..."
Regardless, this year's Wheels & Waves as planned is dead and organizers are announcing the refund of tickets sold.
