Giro start Down Under? Van Avermaet is baffled: "Such a long journey with jet lag is simply too demanding"

The Giro’s desire to push beyond its borders is nothing new. In recent years the race has already started in Belfast (2014), Jerusalem (2018) and Budapest (2022). But RCS, the organizer of the Giro d’Italia, continues to scout new locations. Belgium has even been mentioned in recent weeks as a possible host for a future Grande Partenza.

There’s also a real chance the race could head to another continent altogether. The Middle East’s appetite for major sporting events keeps growing, and RCS appears receptive. Both Saudi Arabia and Abu Dhabi are said to be seriously interested, which wouldn’t be surprising. After all, RCS also organizes the UAE Tour and already has strong ties in the region.

And if you thought the Middle East was far, don’t be surprised by the next rumor. According to Australian journalist Michael Tomalaris, Australia is looking to host the first three stages of La Corsa Rosa in 2027. “There are talks underway to bring the opening three stages of the 2027 Giro to Australia. This isn’t a joke or just speculation. It’s real.”

“I know from a reliable source that Giro organizer RCS is actively exploring options to bring the Giro to Australia,” Tomalaris told Sporza. “I know it might sound impossible to many, but it is seriously being considered.” According to the Australian journalist, there are three cities showing interest in hosting the race. “I think Perth, on the west coast, would be the most logical option, since it’s the closest to Europe. But both Melbourne and Sydney are also reportedly keen.”

If the peloton really does make the trip to Australia, Tomalaris believes the riders can expect massive support along the roads. “There’s a strong passion for cycling in Australia, thanks in part to several top-level Aussie riders. If the Giro were to start here, it would be a dream come true for cycling fans across the country.”

Mauro Vegni, one of the key figures at RCS, isn’t denying the rumor. “From a practical and logistical point of view, it’s difficult, but we don’t say no to anyone up front. Anything is possible, but you need to study the interest carefully and also consider the position of the UCI. On top of that, we still don’t know how the calendar will be restructured in the near future or what the new rules will be.”

“Only then can you determine what’s feasible. We receive many requests from abroad, and we evaluate each one of them,” Vegni continued. “We’re open to talking with everyone. That much is clear. From there, a full process can begin that might eventually lead to a Grande Partenza. You should, without going overboard, have the chance to promote cycling in regions where the sport doesn’t yet have a deep-rooted culture."

The news has now reached former professionals, including Greg Van Avermaet, who finds it difficult to comprehend that Australia is being considered as an option. "It is not a problem for the Giro to look across the border or go to Albania. It's also an added value for the riders because you can race somewhere other than Italy. But I think those long flights with jet lag are simply too demanding. I don't think it's possible."

What Van Avermaet finds particularly problematic is that the time difference between Australia and Italy can be as much as eight hours, which the Rio de Janeiro Olympic champion believes is impossible to cope with. "First, you let the riders adjust to Australian time, and then fly them over to Italy and make them race again. That's a bit crazy," he concludes his story on Sporza.