Bieg Papieski

The Giro d’Italia concludes with its final stage in Rome, and this year's event includes a seldom-seen detour through the Vatican. The race begins and ends in the Italian capital, with the Vatican passage planned as a tribute to Pope Francis following his passing. This marks the first time the Giro has entered the Vatican, adding a ceremonial dimension to the closing day beyond the typical sprint-stage atmosphere in Rome. The cyclists will travel through the Vatican Gardens, exit via the Perugin Gate, and then head back toward the Tiber River to rejoin the standard Rome course. Securing permission presented challenges, according to Monsignor Paul Tighe, but Pope Francis's personal interest in sports facilitated the arrangement. The organizers presented the visit as both a tribute to Francis and a message to the new Pope about the enduring link between sport and the Church.