Share the post "L’Étape Italy by Tour de France goes double in 2026: two major events in Piedmont to boost granfondo cycling in Italy"
With the official support of A.S.O. (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 “made in Tour” granfondo format is doubling down in 2026 with two emblematic events in Piedmont, marking a strategic step for amateur cycling in Italy. Here are some highlights of the L’Étape experience, between legendary passes and a Tour de France atmosphere.
Photo credits: L’Étape Italy by Tour de France
A Winning Collaboration: E.P.T. + ExtraGiro
This new momentum is based on a powerful partnership between two complementary structures:
- E.P.T. (Événements – Personnes – Territoire), led by Flavio Borgna, which has already established the Granfondo Alpi del Mare – Mondovì as a benchmark event starting in 2025.
- ExtraGiro, directed by Marco Pavarini and Marco Selleri, which introduced the L’Étape format in Italy and brings its international expertise (notably the organization of the 2020 World Championships in Imola).
This unprecedented alliance combines organizational know-how, passion for cycling, promotion of territories, and a commitment to quality.
2026: Piedmont at the Heart of the Project
Piedmont, a legendary land for cycling 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 – L’Étape Piemonte
Starting from Entracque (province of Cuneo), in partnership with the Consorzio Margreen. The Stura, Gesso, and Vermenagna valleys will offer spectacular routes in a preserved alpine setting. - September 20, 2026 – L’Étape Mondovì
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 multi-day festivals: entertainment, family activities, children’s programs… The objective is clear: to help as many people as possible (re)discover cycling and transmit its values.
The support of ACSI Cyclisme and Emiliano Borgna reinforces this ambition for sustainable development and openness.
What Key Players Are Saying
Théophile Rallet – L’Étape Series Project Manager, A.S.O.: « Amaury Sport Organisation is proud to collaborate with E.P.T. and ExtraGiro to further develop L’Étape Italy. The two events in 2026 celebrate the great Italian cycling tradition while offering authentic and high-end experiences. »
Flavio Borgna – General Manager, E.P.T.: « L’Étape Italy is an exciting challenge for us: 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 Cyclisme: « These events are not just races: they represent an innovative model for involving families, young people, and territories in sustainable sports practice. »
Share the post "L’Étape Italy by Tour de France goes double in 2026: two major events in Piedmont to boost granfondo cycling in Italy"
