by InTrieste
A pink thread binds Friuli Venezia Giulia to one of the most celebrated cycling races in the world: the Giro d’Italia. This connection, forged through a deep love for the sport and a shared appreciation for the region’s natural beauty and rich history, continues to thrive.
The strength of this bond has been maintained through invaluable collaborations and the visionary leadership of figures like Enzo Cainero and Paolo Urbani, who recognized the race’s potential long before its enduring place in the region’s cultural landscape.
This enduring connection was the focus of remarks delivered by the Vice President and Councillor for Sport of Friuli Venezia Giulia at an event in Fiume Veneto, held in the Palazzetto dello Sport. The occasion marked the presentation of the Fiume Veneto–Asiago stage of the 108th Giro d’Italia, which will take place on May 24, bringing the world-famous race back to the roads of Friuli Venezia Giulia.
Stage 20 of the race, starting in Fiume Veneto and ending in Asiago, promises to be one of the most spectacular and demanding of this year’s Giro. Riders will traverse the diverse terrain of the region, offering viewers and fans an immersive journey through some of the most scenic parts of northeastern Italy—from the lowland plains to the dramatic ascents of the Alps.
In his address, the Vice President emphasized that the Giro is much more than just a sporting event. “It is a narrative that transcends the race itself,” he explained, “traversing various territories and telling the story of their soul.” Citing the famous 19th-century writer Ippolito Nievo’s description of Friuli, he reflected on the region’s extraordinary diversity. With its mix of rivers, lakes, seas, mountains, and lagoons, Friuli Venezia Giulia offers a microcosm of the universe—a land constantly evolving but always proud to host a stage of the Giro.
The Vice President also highlighted the significant role the Giro plays as a global platform for the region, offering an unparalleled opportunity for exposure through worldwide broadcasts. “We are not just aware of the visibility the Giro provides,” he remarked, “but we also understand the symbolic value of this passage. The Corsa Rosa unites people, making them feel part of something much larger than themselves.”
For residents of Friuli Venezia Giulia, the Giro offers a unique chance to witness the race up close, with many fans able to step out of their homes and directly onto the streets of their local towns. This proximity to the event fosters a personal connection, allowing the people of the region to feel truly invested in the race’s journey.
As the Giro d’Italia continues to wind its way through Italy, Friuli Venezia Giulia stands as a testament to the enduring power of sport to unite people and celebrate the beauty of the land they call home. On May 24, that spirit will once again come alive on the roads between Fiume Veneto and Asiago.
