All 23 teams participating in the 109th edition of the Giro d’Italia were introduced during a solemn ceremony at the Summer Theater in Burgas.
The event opened with welcoming speeches from the Mayor of Burgas, Dimitar Nikolov, as well as the caretaker Minister of Youth and Sports, Dimitar Iliev, and the caretaker Minister of Tourism, Irena Georgieva.
"I am delighted that Burgas is part of the Giro d’Italia. Burgas is a wonderful city, and I am convinced you will fall in love with it. The Giro d’Italia also marks the symbolic start of the new 2026 summer season. Good luck to everyone!" — Dimitar Nikolov
Irena Georgieva emphasized the strategic importance of the event for the country's image. "The Giro d’Italia is not just a race. It is the beginning of a story in which Bulgaria reveals itself to the world. It is a symbol of many things—passion, emotion, ambition—all of which can showcase Bulgaria as a tourist destination. We begin with the most beautiful part—the Bulgarian Southern Black Sea coast and the lovely city of Burgas—continue through the old capital Veliko Tarnovo, move toward one of our oldest cities, Plovdiv, and conclude in the capital, Sofia," Georgieva said.
Dimitar Iliev added: "I hope many of our children will be inspired and drawn into this beautiful sport. It is a true delight, a real celebration."
The audience in the packed Summer Theater greeted the world’s cycling stars with thunderous applause. Alongside the teams, the four official leader's jerseys were presented on stage:
- Maglia Rosa (Pink)
- Maglia Ciclamino (Cyclamen)
- Maglia Azzurra (Blue)
- Maglia Bianca (White)
The presentation concluded with the appearance of the Trofeo Senza Fine.
