Giro 2025: Tribute to Pope Francis will be paid during the final stage of the race through the Vatican

Decisive in the agreement to cross the papal city on the occasion of the next Giro, which will take place from May 9 to June 1, Pope Francis will be honored during the final stage around Rome.

The long-planned crossing of the Vatican during the 21st and final stage of the 2025 Giro d'Italia (May 9-June 1) will be a form of homage to Pope Francis, who died on April 21 , its organizers announced on Tuesday, April 29. "This will be a very special moment after the passing of Pope Francis, a passing that has deeply affected us all," said Umberto Cairo, president of the RCS group, owner of the Giro, at a press conference.

For the first time in its history, the Giro d'Italia will enter the Vatican on June 1st: the peloton will cross the Gardens and exit the world's smallest state through the Porta del Perugino, before reaching the banks of the Tiber for its now customary route through the Italian capital. "The negotiations were difficult, but Pope Francis' enthusiasm for this project allowed the doors to be opened," recalled Monsignor Paul Tighe, secretary of the Dicastery for Culture and Education.

The Vatican crossing was initially planned as part of the Jubilee, a "holy year" organized every 25 years that brings together pilgrims from around the world. "Pope Francis was very interested in sport. This is a way to celebrate his memory, to pay tribute to him, but also to tell the new pope to be attentive to the reality and importance of the links between the Church and sport," continued Monsignor Paul Tighe.

The 108th edition of the Giro will begin with three stages in Albania, another first in its history. It will conclude with a 143 km stage around Rome, the city of start and finish of this 21st and final day of the race. The defending champion, recently winner of his second Monument of the season in Liège , Slovenian Tadej Pogacar, will not be at the start this year. And no clear favorite has emerged among the contenders, including his compatriot Primoz Roglic, Spaniard Juan Ayuso and Briton Tom Pidcock, while Frenchman David Gaudu will be trying to invite himself onto the podium.