For the first time, Albania will be part of one of the biggest cycling events in the world. The Giro d’Italia is coming with a three-day route that will be shown live on over 200 TV channels across the globe. The race will begin in Tirana, pass through Durres, and end in the coastal city of Vlora.

The 108th edition of the Giro d’Italia kicks off in Albania, hosting the prestigious departure of the Corsa Rosa for the first time in its history.

The action begins on Friday, May 9, with a medium-mountain stage starting in Durres (Dürres) and finishing in Tirana (Tiranë). This fraction will offer a “mountain stage in the city”, featuring 1,800 meters of climbing spread across 164 km – a demanding course that will immediately set the tone for the race.

On Saturday, May 10, the streets of Tirana (Tiranë) will be transformed into a battleground for a 13.7 km individual time trial. This crucial test against the clock will be an early decider for those with their sights set on the general classification.

The Albanian trilogy of stages will conclude with another medium-mountain stage on Sunday, May 11, a 160 km loop starting and ending in Vlora (Vlöre) with 2,800 meters of elevation gain. This final stage on Albanian soil promises an epic challenge, capping off a thrilling opening to the Giro d’Italia 2025!