In May 2026, Bulgaria became part of cycling history by hosting the Grande Partenza – the official start of the legendary Giro d’Italia – for the very first time. Over the course of three race days, our country welcomed some of the world’s best cyclists, with the route passing through Nessebar, Burgas, Veliko Tarnovo, Plovdiv, and Sofia. This marked the first time in the more than century-long history of the race that Bulgaria hosted the start of the prestigious Italian cycling tour.
As the Official Mobility Partner of Sofia Giro Park, Top Rent A Car had the honor of being part of the organization of one of the largest international sporting events ever held in Bulgaria. Our team provided mobility and logistical support to the organizers, helping ensure the smooth transportation of teams, partners, and event personnel throughout the event.
What Is Giro d’Italia?
Giro d’Italia is one of the three most prestigious cycling races in the world, alongside Tour de France and Vuelta a España. The first edition took place in 1909, and today the race is among the most widely followed sporting events on the international calendar. Every year, it brings together the world’s top professional cyclists, attracts millions of television viewers, and generates tremendous interest among fans, media, and tourists from around the globe. In 2026, Giro d’Italia celebrated its 109th edition, while Bulgaria became the 16th country outside Italy to host the official start of the race. Alongside the race stages held in Bulgaria, Sofia Giro Park was established in the heart of the capital as the event’s official fan zone. Located at St. Alexander Nevsky Square, the park welcomed thousands of visitors between May 8 and May 10, offering a diverse program that included live race broadcasts, activities for children, demonstrations, concerts, and numerous initiatives dedicated to cycling and active living.
Sofia Giro Park became a meeting point for the sporting community, families, tourists, and cycling enthusiasts, all of whom had the opportunity to experience the atmosphere of one of the world’s greatest sporting events.
Supporting a Historic Event
The successful organization of an event of this scale requires not only sporting excellence and meticulous planning but also reliable mobility solutions. That is why it was a privilege for us to support Sofia Giro Park as its Official Mobility Partner. As a leader in the car rental industry in Bulgaria, Top Rent A Car provided logistical support and mobility services tailored to the needs of the organizers, contributing to the seamless execution of the event. Our mission is to provide freedom of movement wherever the most significant events take place, and Giro d’Italia was undoubtedly one of them.
Hosting the Grande Partenza placed Bulgaria at the center of the international sports stage and demonstrated the country’s potential to organize world-class events. For Top Rent A Car, participating in this project was more than a partnership—it was an opportunity to be part of a historic moment for Bulgarian sport and tourism.
We would like to thank the organizers for their trust and for the opportunity to contribute to the success of Sofia Giro Park and Giro d’Italia 2026. We also congratulate all cyclists, volunteers, and participants who helped turn this event into a true celebration of sport, movement, and inspiration.
