The Giro d’Italia is rolling through Albania – and the amateur radio world is celebrating in style! Introducing ZA25GIA, a special event callsign on the air to mark the historic Grande Partenza (Grand Start) of the 2025 Giro d’Italia, with the first three stages taking place across Albania. This is a once-in-a-generation moment where cycling, culture, and radio unite to celebrate international sport, friendship, and tourism.
📻 About ZA25GIA
Organized by the Albanian Federation of Radio Amateurs (FSHRA) 🔗 fshra.org, ZA25GIA highlights Albania’s growing role in the world of sports and international communication. Operated by amateur radio clubs across the country, the event promotes not only global friendship through radio waves but also cultural pride, historical awareness, and national celebration.
Join ZA25GIA across multiple bands and modes, meet operators from Albania, and be part of this grand celebration of sport and spirit.
📑 Logs uploaded daily to Club Log OQRS
📮 QSL cards available via OQRS – a special printed design awaits you!
🏁 Giro d’Italia 2025 – Albania Stages
This is the 15th time the Giro has started abroad, but the first time ever in Albania! Here’s what the riders – and ZA25GIA operators – are celebrating:
🚴 Day 1: May 9 – Durrës to Tirana (164 km)
Starts at the coastal city of Durrës, climbs through Bishqem Fushe, Papër, and Gracen, winds up Dajti mountain road, and finishes in vibrant Tirana.
🚴♂️ Day 2: May 10 – Tirana Time Trial (13.7 km)
A flat, fast-paced urban race through Tirana’s historic streets – all eyes on Skanderbeg Square!
🚴 Day 3: May 11 – Vlora Circuit (160 km)
A scenic and challenging ride through Albania’s stunning southern coastline and mountain passes: Qafa e Shkallës, Porto Palermo, Himarë, Qafa e Vishës, and the epic Qafa e Llogarasë.
🇦🇱 Destination Spotlight: Albania Turns Rosa!
📍 Durrës – Coastal Gateway
Food & Wine:
-
🐟 Peshk në Zgarë – Grilled fish with garlic and lemon
-
🍲 Tavë Kosi – Lamb baked in yogurt and eggs
-
🫑 Fërgesë me piperka – Creamy pepper and cheese spread
-
🍷 Shesh i Bardhë (white) & Shesh i Zi (red) wines
-
☕ Traditional Turkish coffee & Raki, the Albanian spirit
Sites to Visit:
-
🏛️ Roman Amphitheater – One of the largest in the Balkans
-
🏰 Durrës Castle & Venetian Tower
-
🏖️ Durrës Beach and nearby Divjaka-Karavasta National Park
📍 Tirana – Capital of Change
Cuisine:
-
🍖 Qofte meatballs & Mish në Hell skewers
-
🧀 Byrek pastries & Speca të mbushura
-
🍰 Trileçe & Bakllava
Drink Highlights:
-
🍇 Kallmet wine – Deep Balkan red
-
🥤 Boza – Sweet corn-based drink
-
🧂 Dhallë – Salty yogurt beverage
Must-Sees:
-
🏛️ Skanderbeg Square & Et’hem Bey Mosque
-
🧱 Bunk’Art 1 & 2 – Museums in former bunkers
-
🏞️ Grand Park & Artificial Lake
-
🏙️ Blokku District – Cafés, clubs, and culture
📡 Join the Celebration On the Air!
Whether you’re a contester, DXer, or casual operator – ZA25GIA offers you the chance to work a unique callsign while promoting global goodwill. Every QSO helps highlight Albania’s proud moment on the international stage.
Let’s celebrate cycling, radio, and international friendship – CQ ZA25GIA!
Leave a comment
All comments are moderated before being published.
This site is protected by hCaptcha and the hCaptcha Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.