the giro d'italia (; ) is an annual stage race bicycle race primarily held in italy, while also occasionally passing through nearby countries. the race was first organized in 1909 to increase sales of the newspaper "la gazzetta dello sport"; however it is currently run by rcs sport. the race has been held annually since its first edition in 1909, except when it was stopped for the two world wars. as the giro gained prominence and popularity the race was lengthened, and the peloton expanded from primarily italian participation to riders from all over the world.