Giro d'Italia 2025 Starts Friday in Bulgaria: Schedule Change
The 2025 edition of the Giro d'Italia, one of cycling's three Grand Tours, will commence on Friday with a notable schedule change as the race begins in Bulgaria.
According to official scheduling information, the Ronde van Italië (Giro d'Italia) will kick off its opening stage in Bulgaria, representing a departure from the traditional Italian start locations that have characterized most previous editions of the race.
This international start continues the modern trend of Grand Tour organizers occasionally beginning their races in neighboring countries to expand the sport's reach and showcase different regions. Bulgaria will host the opening stages before the race moves into Italy for the remainder of the three-week competition.
The Giro d'Italia remains one of professional cycling's most prestigious events, typically featuring 21 stages over 23 days in May. The race attracts the world's top cyclists competing for the iconic maglia rosa (pink jersey) awarded to the overall leader.
Fans and teams should note this schedule adjustment as they prepare for the 2025 cycling season, with the Bulgarian start adding an international flavor to the opening weekend of competition.