In major debut, Albania to host first three stages of 2025 Giro d’Italia

The 2025 edition of the Giro d’Italia will kick off in Albania on May 9, with the first three stages set across Durrës, Tiranë, and Vlorë before continuing toward Italy and ending in Rome on May 25. It marks the first time the prestigious cycling event begins in Albania, placing the country at the center of international sporting attention.

Why is this important: This is a landmark moment for Albania’s global visibility. Hosting the Giro boosts tourism, showcases local infrastructure, and cements Albania’s position on the map of international sports events.

Official start and presentation: The team presentation ceremony will take place on May 7 at 20:30 in Skanderbeg Square, Tirana. It will feature all participating teams and mark the ceremonial opening of the 108th edition of the Giro d’Italia.

Stage 1: Durrës to Tiranë – May 9: The race officially begins at 13:10 from the Port of Durrës. Cyclists will warm up along a neutral zone before reaching KM 0 in Durrës, the true race start point. From there, the route winds through key cities and towns including Mali i Robit, Kavajë, Rrogozhinë, Peqin, Papër, Bradashesh, Gracen, Mullet, and Sauk.

In Tiranë, riders will loop between Surrel, Rruga “Xhanfize Keko,” Bulevardi “Dëshmorët e Kombit,” and back, completing the stage at around 17:03 at “Nënë Tereza” Square.

Stage 2: Tiranë to Tiranë – May 10: Stage two is a city circuit starting at Skanderbeg Square at approximately 13:30. The peloton will move through “Gjergj Fishta” Boulevard, “Bajram Curri” Boulevard, and then to “Nënë Tereza” Square. The route continues along Elbasan Road toward Sauk and loops back via “Bajram Curri,” through Brryli Bridge and down “Dëshmorët e Kombit.” The finish is again at “Nënë Tereza” Square, expected at 17:15.

Stage 3: Vlorë to Vlorë – May 11: The third and final Albanian stage begins at 13:15 from Vlorë’s Lungomare. Cyclists will proceed to KM 0 on Rruga “Demokracia,” then head toward Kota, Brataj, Qeparo, Porto Palermo, and Himarë. The route includes a climb over Qafa e Llogarasë before descending to Orikum and finishing along “Murat Tërbaçi” Street. The stage is expected to end at 17:26 on “Sadik Zotaj” Street.