In exactly 10 days, Sofia will dress in pink to welcome one of the three largest cycling races in the world - Giro d’Italia. In an interview with NOVA, for which he symbolically arrived on a bicycle, Sofia Mayor Vasil Terziev described the hosting as one of the best ways to present the city and the country, emphasizing that this is a unique opportunity for Sofia and Bulgaria to be seen on an international scale.
In his words, the idea of including the capital in the route of the “Giro” is a result that began as a bold dream within the municipality and was realized after a lot of work and meetings with the organizers in Italy.
„We believe that it will be unique for Sofia, for Bulgaria“, said Terziev, emphasizing the scale of the event and its potential to change the way the world perceives our capital.
184 competitors from 23 teams will participate in the race, and the route in Sofia will offer a dynamic finish on „Tsarigradsko Shose“ Blvd., where the last 7 kilometers will be a fast and attractive section, which is expected to offer serious shifts and a spectacular sprint to the finish in front of the Old Parliament building.
Terziev emphasized that the greatest value of the event is not only on the day of the race itself, but in the long-term effect on the image of Sofia.
„When you manage to present your city, your country "in the best way, I hope that many thousands, hundreds of thousands will eventually come and see our wonderful country and our wonderful city," he said.
In his words, the Giro d'Italia will turn the capital into a real city celebration, which will not be just a sporting event, but a combination of speed, emotion and urban energy. The program between May 8 and 10 will be rich, including sports and cultural activities suitable for all ages.
The mayor called on Sofia residents to become part of the event and fill the streets along the route.
“We hope the weather will be nice and many people will come out so that the world can see how we celebrate, how we enjoy the events in our city“, adds Terziev.
Entrance for spectators will be free, and the Sofia Municipality will publish additional information about the temporary organization of traffic and alternative routes in connection with the event.