BytagThe publication "L'Étape Italy by Tour de France doubles in 2026: two major events in Piedmont to boost cycling in Italy"
With the official support of ASO (Amaury Sport Organisation), the organizer of the Tour de France, L'Étape Italy is accelerating its development and entering a new dimension. After two successful editions, the granfondo format, "made in Tour," is doubling down in 2026 with two iconic events in Piedmont, marking a strategic step for amateur cycling in Italy. Here are some highlights of the L'Étape experience, between legendary mountain passes and the Tour de France atmosphere.
Photo credit: L'Étape Italy by Tour de France
A winning collaboration: EPT + ExtraGiro
This new momentum is based on a powerful partnership between two complementary structures:
- EPT (Events – People – Territory), led by Flavio Borgna, which has already established the Granfondo Alpi del Mare – Mondovì as a benchmark event from 2025.
- ExtraGiro, led by Marco Pavarini and Marco Selleri, introduced the L'Étape format in Italy and brings its international expertise (including the organization of the 2020 World Championships in Imola).
This unprecedented alliance combines organizational expertise, a passion for cycling, the promotion of local areas, and a commitment to quality.
2026: Piedmont at the heart of the project
Piedmont, a legendary cycling region with iconic climbs (Colle della Maddalena, Colle della Lombarda, Colle di Tenda, etc.), becomes the new epicenter of L'Étape Italy.
Two dates to remember:
- May 31, 2026 – The Piedmont Stage
Starting from Entracque (province of Cuneo), in partnership with the Consorzio Margreen. The Stura, Gesso and Vermenagna valleys will offer spectacular routes in a pristine alpine setting. - September 20, 2026 – The Mondovì Stage
Based in Mondovì, this event builds on the success of the Granfondo Alpi del Mare to offer an innovative, festive experience open to all enthusiasts.
More than a race: a true celebration of cycling
Far from being simple granfondos, these two events will be true festivals over several days: entertainment, family activities, programs for children… The objective is clear: to (re)introduce cycling to as many people as possible and to transmit its values.
The support of ACSI Cycling and Emiliano Borgna reinforces this ambition for sustainable development and openness.
What key players are saying
Théophile Rallet – L'Étape Series Project Manager, ASO: “ Amaury Sport Organisation is proud to collaborate with EPT and ExtraGiro to further developtagThe L'Étape Italy. The two events of 2026 celebrate the great Italian cycling tradition while offering authentic and high-end experiences. »
Flavio Borgna – Director General, EPT: “ For us, L'Étape Italy is an exciting challenge: to sustainably establish an international format of excellence while promoting local territories, communities and businesses. »
Marco Pavarini – Director, ExtraGiro: “ This collaboration will allow us to take a leap forward, capitalizing on the experience of the first editions while placing safety and participant experience at the center. »
Emiliano Borgna – President, ACSI Cycling: “ These events are not just races: they represent an innovative model for involving families, young people and local communities in sustainable sports practice. »
