site.btaFunding Approved for Hosting Giro d’Italia - Bulgaria Grande Partenza

The government has approved EUR 15 million in funding for the Ministry of Youth and Sports for 2026 to organize and host Giro d’Italia – Bulgaria Grande Partenza in Bulgaria in May 2026. The financing is approved under the Public Finance Act, following the entry into force of the 2026 State Budget Act, and sets a spending ceiling for January-June 2026.

According to the draft decision, the Bulgaria Grande Partenza is scheduled for May 8-10, 2026. A contract with the holder of exclusive rights will be signed after a public procurement procedure. At Friday’s cabinet meeting, the government also approved a report by the Minister of Youth and Sports on agreements reached for hosting the event in Bulgaria.

Giro d’Italia is one of the world’s three major cycling races, with more than 100 years of history, combining sport, culture and tourism and generating lasting positive effects for host countries in both the short and long term.

The 109th edition of the race will start in Nessebar. The Bulgaria Grande Partenza will include the opening ceremony, the start, and the first three stages, held from May 8 to 10, 2026.

The contract will be concluded with the exclusive rights holder, RCS Sports & Events S.r.l., with a total value of EUR 15 million. It sets out clearly defined rights and obligations for both parties. The draft contract provides Bulgaria with tangible marketing and economic benefits, including three sponsorship packages with television visibility for local sponsors, as well as full freedom to partner with local sponsors without TV exposure.

The agreement also guarantees the right for free live broadcasting of the race by a Bulgarian national television operator, ensuring significant visibility. The event is expected to promote Bulgaria as a tourist destination, strengthen its profile as a host of major international sporting events, and add substantial value to the tourism sector.

An event insurance policy with coverage of EUR 20 million, paid by the contractor, has been agreed, along with a performance guarantee amounting to 5% of the contract value. An organizing committee and specialized coordination teams are to be established.

The arrangements are described as economically sound and protective of Bulgaria’s interests, offering high international visibility, significant added value for tourism, and a long-term positive image effect. Hosting the Giro d’Italia - Bulgaria Grande Partenza is also expected to support the development of sport in Bulgaria, promote cycling and an active lifestyle, encourage mass participation, inspire young people, and enhance the country’s capacity to host top-tier international sporting events.