The anticipation is building as Albania prepares to host the "Giro d'Italia," one of the world's most celebrated sporting events, marking the "La Grande Partenza 2025" – the Grand Departure 2025. This prestigious event is set to capture the attention of sports enthusiasts globally, with live broadcasts reaching over 200 television networks worldwide.
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| Italian training ship Amerigo Vespucci |
"Amerigo Vespucci" Sets Sail for Durrës
Adding to the excitement, the "Amerigo Vespucci," an iconic and prestigious vessel of the Italian Navy, symbolizing history, tradition, and maritime passion, will anchor in the port of Durrës on April 9th.
This stop, in conjunction with the Giro d'Italia, serves as a promotion of Italian culture worldwide. A special setting will be created onboard the ship to exhibit the "Senza Fine" Trophy, attended by 50 guests from various institutions and media outlets.
Distinguished speakers, including the Commander of the "Amerigo Vespucci," Prime Minister Edi Rama, RCS Sports & Events CEO Paolo Bellino, representatives from the Italian Ministry of Defense and Naval Forces, and the Italian Ambassador to Albania, will address the attendees.
The Three Stages of the "Giro D'Italia" in Albania
Here's a breakdown of the three stages in Albania:
- Stage 1: May 9, 2025 – 164 Kilometers
- The race commences in Durrës, proceeding towards Bishqem-Fushë, Papër, Gracen, and then onto Surrel and Mount Dajti, culminating in Tirana.
- This stage features 1800 meters of elevation gain across 164 kilometers, with a second-category GPM after 70 kilometers, a 13.5-kilometer climb with a 5.2% average gradient (11% maximum), and a final 22-kilometer circuit with a short climb repeated twice before a potential sprint finish.
- Stage 2: May 10, 2025 (Time Trial) – 13.7 Kilometers
- This stage is a flat, urban time trial, starting and finishing in Tirana.
- Beginning at "Skënderbej" Square, the 13.7-kilometer race will traverse Tirana's main roads. It includes an 8-kilometer intermediate time check, a fourth-category 1.5-kilometer climb with a 6% gradient, and a flat descent to the finish line, requiring excellent bike handling skills.
- Stage 3: May 11, 2025 – 160 Kilometers
- This stage starts and ends in Vlorë, covering a significant portion of the southern coastline.
- The route encompasses Vlorë – Peshkëpi – Qafa e Dushkut – Brataj – Qafa e Shkallës – Porto Palermo – Himarë – Qafa e Vishës – Iliaz – Qafa e Llogorasë – Orikum, and returns to Vlorë.
- This stage is 160km long, with 2700 meters of elevation gain, and two GPM's. The first is a fourth category, and the second is less than 40km before the decent to the finish line.
This historic event is poised to showcase Albania's scenic beauty and vibrant culture to a global audience.