The title has been awarded annually since 1985 to two European cities and serves as an important boost for cultural development, international cooperation, and urban renewal. Previous editions have shown that participation can lead to long-term economic and social strengthening of regions.
Gehrels brings extensive administrative and substantive experience. She was previously an alderwoman in Amsterdam, is Director of Placemaking & Urbanism at Arcadis, and has held various positions in business and the cultural sector, including chairing the Holland Festival.
According to Gehrels, the exploration is about more than just winning a title: “Groningen has everything it takes to start a movement again that connects people, inspires, and makes them proud. This exploration is not only about winning a title – it is about opening new perspectives for the future of the city and region.”
Between February and June 2026, Gehrels will conduct a comprehensive analysis of the feasibility and desirability of a candidacy. The findings will be shared with local and provincial decision-makers no later than the second quarter of 2026.