The fact that the Giro d'Italia will start in Albania for the first time was known earlier, but at yesterday's official presentation of the race route, the reality became clear that this year's Grand Tour will be significantly tougher than last year's.
The first Grand Tour of the year, held from May 9 to June 1, will be mountainous right from the first day, as riders head from Durrës to Tirana. The second stage is a 13.7 km time trial (a total of two individual time trials are planned), and on the third day, the race will take place around Vlorë, where climbers will also shine. After an early rest day, the race will continue on Italian soil.
Compared to last year's Giro, this year's stages are even more demanding for climbers – a total of 52,500 meters of climbing, which is 10,000 meters more than last year. Although gaps in the general classification will emerge early in the Giro, they are unlikely to be decisive, as the real contenders will be separated in the final days. The 19th stage, featuring three Category 1 climbs, will be a true highlight.
The toughest mountain will be on the penultimate day, with a climb to the summit of Colle delle Finestre at an altitude of 2178 meters. On this day, riders will also tackle five sectors on white gravel roads, giving them a taste of the Strade Bianche. Sprinters also have a reason to participate – although opportunities are few, the chance to shine on the final day in Rome could be good motivation.
According to current information, Tadej Pogačar (UAE Team Emirates) will not defend his Giro title, but Primož Roglič (Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe), the winner two years ago, has confirmed his participation. The UAE Team Emirates roster includes, among others, Juan Ayuso, Adam Yates, and Isaac del Toro.
Wout van Aert, Simon Yates, and sprinter Olav Kooij will be the leaders for Visma-Lease a Bike. Other strong contenders include Nairo Quintana (Movistar), Mikel Landa (Soudal-QuickStep), and Richard Carapaz (EF Education-Easypost).
PHOTO: GIRO D'ITALIA
See you in May, tifosi 😍#GirodItalia #GirodItaliaWomen pic.twitter.com/hDucY0tzkY
— Giro d'Italia (@giroditalia) January 13, 2025
🗺️ This is the route of the 2025 Giro d'Italia!👇
— Giro d'Italia (@giroditalia) January 13, 2025
🗺️ Questo è il Giro d'Italia 2025!👇#GirodItalia pic.twitter.com/cVT1Msio3u
