Italy prepares to host start of Tour de France for first time

First stage highlights contribution to the sport by legendary Italian cyclists such as Gino Bartali and Marco Pantani

The Tuscan capital of Florence is no stranger to tourists, but they are usually more interested in frescoes and Michelangelo than yellow jerseys and Tadej Pogačar.

On Saturday, however, an estimated 800,000 cycling fans are expected to gather in the city for the Grand Départ of the Tour de France, the first time Italy has hosted the start of the world’s most famous cycle race in its 121-year history.