The 82nd Tour of Albania kicks off today with a five-day race full of excitement for cyclists from all over Europe.

The race runs from May 26 to 30 and will cover the entire country with five competitive stages.

The Albanian Cycling Federation, organizes the event that features 15 teams and 96 cyclists.

Stage 1 begins in Tirana and covers 151 km to Rrëshen, finishing in Shkodër.

Stage 2 runs 188 km from Shkodër to Elbasan.

Stage 3 takes cyclists from Elbasan to Vlora over 149 km.

Stage 4 offers a tough challenge with a 153 km route from Vlorë to Himarë, including the Llogara Pass climb.

The final stage on May 30 goes from Vlora to Fier, where the winner will be decided.

This race follows the recent Giro d’Italia “Grande Partenza,” which held three stages in Albania through Durrës, Tirana, and Vlora.

The State Police announced special road access arrangements to ensure safety during the race. They ask drivers to avoid the race routes during the times listed below.

Road Access Updates for Stage 1 on May 26, 2025:

“Zogu i Parë” Street, Tirana – Durrës Road: 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM Durrës–Tirana Highway up to Kashar: 11:30 AM – 12:20 PM

Kashar–Thumana Highway: 12:00 PM – 12:45 PM

Thumana to Milot: 12:30 PM – 1:10 PM

Milot to Rrëshen: 12:50 PM – 1:45 PM

Rrëshen to Milot: 1:30 PM – 2:15 PM

Milot to Lezhë: 2:00 PM – 2:30 PM

Lezha to Shkodër: 2:45 PM – 3:30 PM

From “Balshaj” Square on “Zogu i Parë” Street to Parruca, Shkodër: 3:10 PM – 3:45 PM

/a.p./