by InTrieste
A key stage of the 2026 Giro d’Italia will pass through the earthquake-scarred mountains of Friuli Venezia Giulia, offering what regional officials describe as both a sporting challenge and a tribute to the area’s recovery.
The 20th stage, set for May 30, will run from Gemona del Friuli to Piancavallo, covering roughly 200 kilometers with nearly 3,900 meters of elevation gain. The route crosses towns heavily damaged by the 1976 earthquake, a disaster that reshaped the region.
At a presentation in Venzone, officials said the regional government is investing in road safety upgrades and the restoration of public spaces along the course. The work, they said, is intended to improve infrastructure while leaving a lasting mark tied to the event.
The stage will start from the Goi-Pantanali barracks in Gemona, where 29 Alpine soldiers died in the earthquake, adding a layer of historical significance to the race.
Organizers described the stage as one of the most demanding of the 2026 Giro. During the event, Mauro Vegni, the race’s longtime director, received a lifetime achievement award, as local leaders and organizers highlighted the legacy of Enzo Cainero, who helped bring major cycling events to the region.
Mayors and military representatives attended the presentation, underscoring the broad local involvement. For officials, the stage is meant to present Friuli Venezia Giulia not only as a destination for international sport, but as a place defined by resilience and reconstruction.
