01.12.2025
Giro d’Italia is not only a sports event within the world of achievements; it is also a symbol of trust and friendship between Bulgaria and Italy. This was stated by Prime Minister Rossen Jeliazkov at the official ceremony to present the start and route of the cycling race of Italy – Giro d’Italia 2026. Bulgaria has been chosen to host the opening (La Grande Partenza), and the first three stages of the race in May 2026.
Such events are of great importance for the world we live in as they promote dialog, friendship and respect, Prime Minister Rossen Jeliazkov pointed out. The Prime Minister stressed the excellent combination of sport, tourism and culture. For Bulgaria, the race affords an enormous opportunity to show its potential to millions of watchers. The country has glorious history, unique nature and exceptional traditions in its hospitality, Rossen Jeliazkov noted.
The Prime Minister pointed out that Giro d’Italia is part of Europe’s cultural and sports heritage. It is one of the three largest cycling races in the world, with more than a century of history, which began in 1909. He recalled an important day in 2015 when Nikolai Mihailov became the first Bulgarian to join Giro d’Italia as a cyclist. Today, eleven years later, Bulgaria is not just a racer; Bulgaria is the host of the Grande Partenza which shows what an intricate, dynamic and interesting journey we have made within such a short time, Rossen Jeliazkov said further.
Prime Minister Rossen Jeliazkov specially thanked the Ministry of Youth and Sports, the Ministry of Tourism and the partners – the Italian counterparts – for their effort and contribution to install Bulgaria on the world map of tourism and sport.
