Bulgaria on the world stage: A successful start to the Giro d’Italia 2026

11.05.2026 | Sport

Bulgaria hosted the first three stages of the Giro d’Italia 2026. The 550 km route through Bulgaria promoted our country to millions of viewers around the world.

Снимка от Michielverbeek, Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Bulgaria at the center of the world cycling elite

Our country successfully hosted the first three stages of the prestigious Giro d'Italia 2026 - Grande Partenza Bulgaria race. The route passed through iconic Bulgarian cities such as Nesebar, Burgas, Veliko Tarnovo, Plovdiv, and Sofia.

"550 kilometers on Bulgarian soil showcased our country to millions of people around the world just as we know it - inspiring and full of energy and spirit," said Minister of Tourism Dr. Ilin Dimitrov.

Success through partnership

The hosting of the event is proof of the effective interaction between:

Minister Dimitrov expressed special gratitude to the Bulgarian public, who turned the stages into a true celebration of sports. The enormous interest and international media coverage place Bulgaria on the map of major sporting events, inviting tourists from all over the world to experience the beauty and spirit of the country.