The Council of Ministers decided in May 2026 that the opening ceremony and the first three stages of the Giro d'Italia - Bulgaria Grande Partenza will take place in Bulgaria, the cabinet's press service announced.
The government authorized the Minister of Youth and Sports and the Minister of Tourism to conclude a contract with the holders of exclusive rights for the realization of the cycling race RCS Sport S.p.A and RCS Sports & Events S.r.l.
Giro d'Italia is one of the few sporting events in the world that, taking place outdoors, allows millions of people not only to experience the thrill of the sport, but also to discover and enjoy the beauty of the cities and landscapes through which it passes.
The event has a history of over 100 years, and its holding combines sport, culture, and tourism, creating a lasting and positive impact for the participating countries in both the short and long term.
By hosting such events, Bulgaria has the opportunity not only to attract tourists, but also to establish its brand as a year-round, diverse, and competitive destination on the international tourism map, the government press center notes.
The Giro d'Italia in Bulgaria in 2026 will include the participants passing through dozens of municipalities, which is extremely important for their development, said the Minister of Tourism Miroslav Borshosh in August, when the government supported the proposal of the two ministries to finalize negotiations for hosting this prestigious sporting event. Our country will host three of a total of 21 stages, including the 'Grande Partenza' - the so-called start of the Giro d'Italia.