The 2026 Giro d’Italia kicks off outside Italy for the 15th time in its history. The 109th edition of the Corsa Rosa will start for the first time in Bulgaria, with the town of Nessebar hosting the Grande Partenza.
The opening three stages of this Giro will be held entirely on Bulgarian soil. As is typical for foreign starts, the first stage is expected to be relatively flat. After covering 147 km to Burgas, the only classified climb is a double passage over the fourth-category Agalina ramp. Unless disrupted by external factors—such as strong winds predicted on exposed sections of road—the stage will likely culminate in a bunch sprint among the peloton’s fastest riders.
If no crosswinds split the group, those vying for the maglia ciclamino (points jersey) are expected to fight for both the first stage win and the maglia rosa. Among the top contenders are Milan, Groenewegen, Magnier, De Lie, Groves, Andresen, Vernon, Van Uden, Moschetti, Aular, and Ackermann.
The Giro d’Italia lands in Bulgaria with Jonas Vingegaard as the standout favorite. The route offers an early opportunity for sprinters, while the general classification contenders will likely save their energy for the tougher stages ahead.