The Giro d’Italia begins with the first of three stages on Bulgarian soil. The opening stage covers 147 km, ending in a finale that, on paper, seems suited to the sprinters. However, the riders are still very fresh, and some teams may try to disrupt the plans of the fast wheels. At the end of the stage, the first Maglia Rosa of this edition will be awarded.

The route 

Flat stage with very short rises concentrated in a 22 km circuit that is covered twice around mid-stage. The route follows the coastline and passes the finish line once before heading towards Sozopol, where riders tackle two laps of a fast circuit featuring short undulations, including the KOM at Cape Agalina (twice). Return to Burgas along the coast on fast, flowing roads, finishing in the city centre.

Timetable

Start time: 1:50 p.m.
Estimated finish time: 5:05 p.m.

Live – Where to follow the Giro d’Italia today

Follow Giro Live for full coverage of the stage 1: Nessebar / Несебър – Burgas / Бургас (147 km)

Play and win with the Giro d’Italia

While waiting for today’s stage, don’t forget that every day you can access the FanZone and take part in the Stage Winner Predictor. From 8:00 p.m. on the day before the stage until 10:00 a.m. on the day of the stage, you can choose the rider who you think will cross the finish line first. Make your prediction and earn one entry into the Join the FanZone Challenge prize draw for each vote submitted.