The Tour de France is set to make history as Italy gears up to host the start of the prestigious cycling race for the first time. The Tuscan capital of Florence will be the focal point as an estimated 800,000 cycling enthusiasts are expected to gather for the Grand Départ.

Italy’s rich cycling heritage will take the spotlight as the event highlights the contributions of legendary Italian cyclists such as Gino Bartali and Marco Pantani. The region of Tuscany and Emilia Romagna, known for producing iconic cyclists, will showcase its cycling legacy to the world.

Gioia Bartali, granddaughter of Gino Bartali, a two-time Tour de France champion, expressed the significance of the event in honoring the cycling greats of the past. The first stage of the race holds particular importance for her family as it pays tribute to the historical figures who shaped Italian cycling.

As the Tour peloton sets off from Piazza della Signoria in Florence, it will pass by the Gino Bartali museum in Ponte a Ema, the birthplace of the cycling champion, adding a poignant touch to the start of the race. The event serves as a commemoration of the rich cycling history that has brought prestige to Italy on the global stage.

Stay tuned for more updates and stage-by-stage guides to this year’s Tour de France as the cycling world anticipates the thrilling start in Italy.