The earliest editions of the race were all held in Alessandria before Turin took centre stage for several years. From the mid-20th century onwards, however, a variety of towns and cities across Piedmont hosted the start and finish of the Giro del Piemonte. While the race generally remained rooted in the southern part of the region, there were notable exceptions, such as the 2001 edition, won by Nico Mattan with a finish in Domodossola. These were years of transition for the race: the 2000 edition was cancelled following the devastating floods that struck the region, while the 2007 race did not take place for financial reasons. Even so, several distinguished champions added their names to the roll of honour, including Franco Ballerini (1990), Andrea Tafi (1999) and two-time winner Daniele Bennati (2006 and 2008).
hall of fame
The final two editions of the Giro del Piemonte before its transformation into GranPiemonte were both won by Daniele Bennati. He claimed victory in 2006 and again in 2008 – the race was not held in 2007 – prevailing in bunch sprints in Alba and Lagnasco. Bennati also enjoyed an outstanding career on the international stage, winning three stages of the Giro d’Italia, two at the Tour de France – including the prestigious final stage on the Champs-Élysées – and six at the Vuelta a España. He also captured the points classification at the 2007 Vuelta and the 2008 Giro d’Italia, cementing his reputation as one of the most respected and admired riders of his generation.
Vittorie
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