From the Rheingau to Europe – and Beyond (German press release)

How WEINELF, Geisenheim and VINOEURO 2026 are reviving an idea of friendship

Photo: Team photo at Niederwald Monument (2016) by Winfreid Schönbach, Bernhard Herzer

What began in the Rheingau is becoming visible in Tuscany – and may soon reach as far as South America: VINOEURO 2026 is more than a European Championship of winemakers’ national football teams. It is the expression of an idea that could not be more relevant today: connection through wine, encounter and shared values.

From June 2 to 7, 2026, ten nations will gather in Tuscany for VINOEURO. At the center: WEINELF Germany – closely connected to Geisenheim University, which has long acted as an intellectual origin and driving force of this network.

Geisenheim as the Heart of a European Network

Geisenheim University is far more than an educational institution. It is a hub of international relationships – a place where science, practice and personality come together.

A key driving force within this structure is Robert Lönarz. As President of WEINELF Germany and of the European umbrella organization UENFW, as well as a central figure within the university environment and President of the Geisenheim Alumni Association (VEG), he represents the idea of a living network that extends far beyond the Rheingau. His commitment connects academia, the wine industry and international partnerships – with the clear goal of enabling encounters and building sustainable relationships.

For many years, the General Secretaries have been integral to this work: Erica Fischbach (former Chief of Staff to Member of Parliament Klaus-Peter Willsch) and Nelson Rodrigues (former UEFA A-license coach, Hassia Bingen).

France Joins – Europe Grows Together

With the inclusion of France and the newly founded team “Bleus de la Vigne,” the movement reaches a new dimension. Ten wine-producing nations are now part of the UENFW – a strong signal in a time when Europe depends more than ever on exchange and cohesion.

That this impulse originated in Geisenheim highlights the international influence of the Rheingau as a place of connection.

Tuscany as a Stage – Antinori and Ornellaia

VINOEURO 2026 is hosted in one of the world’s most renowned wine regions. The Antinori family serves as patron – a symbol of tradition, excellence and European wine culture.

A particular highlight is the professional conference “VINOEDUCA,” held at the world-famous winery Ornellaia. Here, international experts, winemakers and scientists will come together to discuss the future of viticulture – from sustainability to climate adaptation.

This makes it clear: VINOEURO is not only about sport, but also a space for ideas and a platform for the key challenges of the industry.

More Than Football: A European Idea

WEINELF is not a traditional sports team. It is a network that connects people – across generations, regions and nations. At its core lies the belief that wine is more than a product: it is a cultural asset, an economic driver and a bridge between people.

An important supporter of this idea for many years has been Dr. Franz Josef Jung, former Federal Minister, honorary chairman of the advisory board and honorary captain of WEINELF, and a son of the Rheingau winegrowing tradition.

“With our WEINELF honorary chairman, honorary captain and Rheingau winemaker’s son, former Federal Minister Dr. Franz Josef Jung, we have had a strong supporter of European friendship for many years – an idea that can be effectively implemented by Fritz Keller, top winemaker and former president of the German Football Association.”

This combination of political experience, entrepreneurial excellence and a shared passion for wine reflects the unique strength of the network.

The Next Step: Chile

The development does not end at Europe’s borders. A tournament in Chile is planned for November 2026 – a potential South American Cup of winemakers’ national teams. This would mark the first step toward a truly global vision.

Responsibility and the Future

Within WEINELF itself, important decisions are ahead. The executive board, including Jürgen Fladung (Vice President SVWW) and Michael Apitz (Rheingau artist), is working together with President Robert Lönarz on the strategic development of the organization while preparing a transition to the next generation.

At the same time, political dialogue is ongoing: on the eve of the Hessentag in Berlin, representatives from the wine sector, politics and the network will meet to further anchor the role of such initiatives.

An Idea Rooted in the Rheingau

The story of VINOEURO shows that great ideas often begin on a small scale – in the Rheingau, in Geisenheim, through encounters between people sharing a common passion.

Today, it has become a European network – driven by friendship, by wine and by the belief that cooperation is stronger than division.

VINOEURO 2026 will make exactly that visible.

Volunteering as a driving force for Europe – Robert Lönarz at VINOEURO in Portugal

34 years at Geisenheim University – voluntary engagement:

16 years President of VEG – Geisenheim Alumni

13 years President of WEINELF Germany

8 years President of UENFW – Union of European National Football Teams of Winemakers e.V.