🚴 What Is the Giro d’Italia?
The Giro d’Italia is one of cycling’s three Grand Tours, alongside the Tour de France and Vuelta a España. First held in 1909, it was created by La Gazzetta dello Sport to boost newspaper sales and national pride. The race has since evolved into a 21-stage, three-week epic that traverses Italy’s diverse terrain—from Alpine climbs to coastal sprints—while showcasing the country’s rich culture and landscapes.
Each year, riders compete for several iconic jerseys:
Maglia Rosa (Pink Jersey): Overall leader.
Maglia Ciclamino (Cyclamen Jersey): Points classification leader.
Maglia Azzurra (Blue Jersey): King of the Mountains.
Maglia Bianca (White Jersey): Best young rider under 25.
The 108th edition of the Giro began on May 9 in Durrës, Albania, and will conclude on June 1 in Rome covering a total distance of 3,443.3 kilometers over 21 stages. Notably, top contenders like Tadej Pogačar, Jonas Vingegaard, and Remco Evenepoel were absent, opening the door for emerging talents. Mexican rider Isaac del Toro, just 21 years old, made history by becoming the first Mexican to wear the Maglia Rosa.
Del Toro’s teammate, 22-year-old Spaniard Juan Ayuso, has been a formidable challenger, especially after his impressive performance in the Pisa time trial.
🏛️ Pisa’s Moment in the Spotlight
After 45 years, the Giro returned to Pisa in 2025 with Stage 10: a 28.6 km individual time trial from Lucca to Pisa. This stage was pivotal, not just for its technical demands but also for its impact on the general classification.
For Pisa, hosting this stage was more than a sporting event—it was a celebration of the city’s historical and cultural significance, drawing global attention and tourism.
🗺️ Route Overview
Start: The race commenced in Durrës, Albania, marking a significant start outside Italy.
Finish: The grand finale took place in Rome, with riders concluding their journey at the iconic Vatican Gardens on June 1.
Rest Days: Cyclists had rest days on May 12, May 19, and May 26.
Total Distance: 3,443.3 km over 21 stages.
🏁 Stage Highlights
Stage 1: Durrës to Tirana, 160 km – Hilly stage.
Stage 2: Tirana to Tirana, 13.7 km – Individual Time Trial.
Stage 3: Vlorë to Vlorë, 160 km – Hilly stage.
Stage 10: Lucca to Pisa, 28.6 km – Individual Time Trial.
Stage 21: Vatican Gardens to Rome, 143 km – Flat stage.
For a detailed breakdown of each stage, refer to the official Giro d’Italia route.
📍 Stage 10: Lucca to Pisa – A Historic Return
After 45 years, the Giro returned to Pisa on May 20 for Stage 10, a 28.6 km individual time trial from Lucca to Pisa. This stage was pivotal, offering a flat route that tested the riders’ speed and endurance.
Highlights:
Winner: Dutch cyclist Daan Hoole clinched his first Grand Tour stage victory, completing the course in 32 minutes and 30 seconds, despite challenging weather conditions.
General Classification Impact: Spanish rider Juan Ayuso delivered a remarkable performance, narrowing the gap to just 25 seconds behind the overall leader, Isaac del Toro.
🎉 Pisa’s Festivities: A City Painted Pink
Pisa embraced the Giro with enthusiasm.
Decorations: The city was adorned with pink flags, balloons, and illuminated landmarks, celebrating the Giro’s signature color.
Events: From May 16 to May 20, Piazza dei Cavalieri and Ponte di Mezzo hosted DJ concerts, live music, and dance performances, turning the city into a festive hub.
Community Engagement: Local markets and food stalls lined the streets, offering traditional Tuscan delicacies and cycling merchandise.
🏆 Overall Standings: A Tight Race
Leader: Isaac del Toro maintained the Maglia Rosa (pink jersey), symbolizing the race leader.
Challengers: Juan Ayuso and Primož Roglič remained close contenders, with Ayuso’s performance in Pisa bringing him within striking distance.
📺 Watching the Giro
Fans worldwide tuned in through various platforms:
El País
Italy: RaiPlay offered free streaming.
USA: Coverage was available via Max with the B/R Sports add-on.
UK: Discovery Plus Premium provided live streams.
Canada: FloBikes broadcasted the event.
🏁 Conclusion
The Giro d’Italia 2025 was more than a race; it was a celebration of sport, culture, and community. Pisa’s return to the Giro after 45 years added a historic touch, and the city’s vibrant festivities showcased the unifying power of this grand event.
