The wait is finally over! Today, May 8, 2026, cycling history in Bulgaria changes forever. The "Pink Caravan" of the 109th Giro d’Italia officially sets off from our shores, making Bulgaria the 12th nation to host the prestigious "Grande Partenza."
Ahead of the riders lie an epic 3,468 kilometers, with the first 543 km taking place on Bulgarian soil. The total elevation gain over the three-week adventure is nearly 50,000 meters, but today’s opening stage offers a much gentler start, tailor-made for the masters of speed.
Stage 1: From Historic Nesebar to the Spirit of Burgas
The first stage covers 147 kilometers and promises to be a visual feast. The start will be signaled in the magical atmosphere of Nesebar’s Old Town, from where the 184 riders head south.
The Route Details:
- Path: Nesebar – Burgas – Sozopol (including two 22.1 km laps).
- Challenges: Two passes over Cape Agalina, home to the first categorized climbs for mountain points.
- Elevation: A modest 1,000 meters, virtually guaranteeing a bunch sprint finish.
The finish line is set in Burgas, where the wide boulevards will host the first major sprint of the season. The stakes? Not just the stage win, but the first Maglia Rosa, the most iconic symbol of the Italian tour.
The Favorites: A Clash of Titans
Today belongs to the sprinters. All eyes are on Jonathan Milan. The Italian giant enters the race with an impressive six wins already this season and the ambition to secure his third consecutive "Ciclamino" points jersey.
However, he faces fierce competition:
- Dylan Groenewegen: The Dutchman is in top form and on a special mission – to secure the first-ever Grand Tour victory for the Unibet Rose Rockets in their debut appearance.
- The Young Guns: Paul Magnier and Tobias Lund Andresen will be looking for any opportunity to upset the veterans.
- The Established Contenders: Kaden Groves, Pascal Ackermann, and Casper van Uden are all on the shortlist of threats ready to disrupt Milan’s plans.
While the sprinters battle for glory, the overall favorite for the final victory in Rome – Jonas Vingegaard – will be focused on simply staying safe and avoiding incidents in today’s high-speed finale.
How to Watch
If you aren't roadside to feel the draft of the passing peloton, you can follow the action live:
- Eurosport 1 and HBO Max
- Broadcast starts: 1:30 PM (EEST)
