2025 Giro d'Italia Begins May 9 in Albania

The 108th Giro d’Italia commences on May 9, 2025, with the first three stages uniquely hosted in Albania before moving into Italy for the remainder of the 21-stage, 3,413 km race, which concludes in Rome on June 1. This edition is notable for the absence of defending champion Tadej Pogačar, opening the competition to new contenders, with Primož Roglič among the favorites. The route includes challenging climbs such as the Llogara Pass in Albania and the legendary Colle delle Finestre in Italy, featuring partly gravel sections that could be decisive for the overall standings. The race route combines scenic coastal, mountainous, and historic urban landscapes, with only two true summit finishes, making tactical riding crucial. The event has also drawn significant cultural attention, with Albania celebrating hosting the Giro for the first time and Italian teams incorporating iconic landmarks like the Colosseum into their team graphics. This Giro d’Italia promises a tactical, grueling contest with a blend of tradition, international debut, and emotional farewells, notably marking the final Giro for Romain Bardet.