On 31 March 2026, the Organising Committee of ITA WTC2027 Antwerp brought together 170 professionals related to the tunnelling and underground construction community for an information session and cocktail event at A Room with a ZOO in Antwerp. The countdown to the ITA World Tunnel Congress 2027 has officially begun.

The evening was an opportunity for the Organising Committee to introduce the congress to local companies and stakeholders, and to explain what WTC2027 means for Belgium, for Antwerp and for the Belgian tunnelling and underground space industry. The message was clear: the world is coming to Antwerp from 23 to 29 April 2027, and Belgium needs to be ready.

Bart van Camp, Director of Environment of Lantis, highlighted Antwerp’s unique position as a host city and the extraordinary opportunity the congress represents for the local industry. Alderman for Mobility Koen Kennis added his support on behalf of the city: “Antwerp is honoured to welcome the world’s tunnelling community. This congress is a testament to our reputation as a leading hub for innovation and infrastructure.”

A dedicated roundtable with Belgian infrastructure asset managers and industry representatives then gave local professionals a direct voice in shaping the congress program. The scientific committee closed the evening by presenting the call for abstracts and encouraging Belgian professionals to step forward and share their expertise on the global stage.