Tour of Romania 2026 to Start in the Republic of Moldova

This year’s edition will open on September 8 in central Chișinău with the official team presentation and opening ceremony, bringing together approximately 25 professional teams from Romania and abroad. The first stage, scheduled for September 9, will be held entirely on the territory of Republic of Moldova, finishing in Ungheni. This represents a double milestone for the competition: both the first international старт and the first stage ever hosted outside Romania.

Dan Perciun, Minister of Education and Research of Moldova, emphasized the symbolic importance of the initiative:
“For the first time, the Tour of Romania will старт from Chișinău, which is both an honor and highly significant for us. It reflects the strong relationship between Moldova and Romania and demonstrates our ability to collaborate on meaningful projects. Beyond promoting a healthy lifestyle, sport brings us closer together, reinforces shared values, and helps build relationships based on respect and trust.”

Bogdan-Constantin Matei, President of the Romanian National Agency for Sport, highlighted the institutional effort behind the event
“I welcome with great confidence the initiative of the Romanian Cycling Federation to transform the Tour of Romania into a truly cross-border competition. The National Agency for Sport fully supports this effort, especially as preparations began as early as December through strong institutional collaboration. I am convinced this edition will set a benchmark, strengthening partnerships, increasing international visibility, and reaffirming sport as a bridge for dialogue and cooperation.”

Route and Schedule: Tour of Romania 2026

The 2026 route showcases the diversity and charm of the regions it crosses—from culturally rich cities to iconic natural landscapes. Starting in Chișinău, the race caravan will move into Romania’s Moldova region, traverse scenic المناطق and distinctive urban centers, and conclude in Bucharest, offering a symbolic urban finale.

• September 8 – Team Presentation – Chișinău
• September 9 – Stage 1: Chișinău – Ungheni
• September 10 – Stage 2: Iași – Piatra Neamț
• September 11 – Stage 3: Piatra Neamț – Băile Balvanyos
• September 12 – Stage 4: Brașov – Ploiești
• September 13 – Stage 5: Bucharest Circuit

A Cross-Border Platform for Growth and Visibility

Cătălin Sprinceană, President of the Romanian Cycling Federation, described the event as a strategic step forward:
“The Tour of Romania is evolving to a new level of organization and recognition. This year’s edition represents a sporting bridge between Romania and the Republic of Moldova, promoting the beauty and values of both countries while encouraging cycling among a broader audience.”

Tiberiu Dănețiu, Director of Institutional Affairs and Retail Media at Auchan Romania, added:
“For over two decades, we have supported an active and healthy lifestyle. Our partnership with the Romanian Cycling Federation and involvement in organizing the Tour of Romania reflect this commitment. The event is a source of national pride, an inspiration for younger generations, and an important contributor to Romania’s international image.”

Brâncuși-Inspired Trophy

Marking 150 years since the birth of Constantin Brâncuși, one of the most influential figures in modern art, the 2026 edition will feature a special trophy inspired by his work. The trophy will be crafted by sculptor Liviu Brezeanu and awarded to the overall winner during the final stage in Bucharest.

массов Participation and Community Engagement

The Tour of Romania will once again host массов races for children and amateur cyclists in Iași, Piatra Neamț, Ploiești, and Bucharest. Participation continues to grow year-on-year, with nearly 3,000 participants recorded in 2025, most of them from the capital, highlighting the event’s growing community impact.

Official Launch and Organization

The competition was officially launched on April 22 during an event attended by nearly 200 guests, including representatives of central and local authorities, public institutions, embassies, commercial partners, sports federations, and prominent figures from Romanian sport.

The Tour of Romania 2026 is organized by the Romanian Cycling Federation, in partnership with the National Agency for Sport and Auchan Romania as main partner and co-organizer for the past seven years.

The full race route and detailed program are available on the official website.