Giro d’Italia to start in Albania for the first time

Tirana, December 26, 2024 - Albania is gearing up to host the Grand Start of the Giro d’Italia in May 2025, marking the first time the prestigious cycling race begins in the country.

The opening stage kicks off on 9 May in Durrës, with riders taking on a tough 164-kilometre route to Tirana. The mountainous terrain will provide a fierce challenge and stunning visuals for fans.

Prime Minister Edi Rama called the announcement a “proud milestone” for Albania. “This is more than a race; it’s a chance to showcase Albania to a global audience,” he said.

The Giro d’Italia, one of cycling’s elite Grand Tours, attracts over 800 million viewers across 200 countries. Albania now joins an exclusive list of 15 nations to host the event outside Italy.