The Giro began in Lecce with a 201 km (125 mi) mass-start stage.

The race came to a close with a 33 km (21 mi) individual time trial that began and ended in the Italian city of Milan.

After the race, it was discovered that sixth-placed Raimondas Rumšas had tested positive in this Giro.

This edition of the Giro was the first UCI endorsed race where the wearing of helmets was compulsory.

[2] Each team sent a squad of nine riders (only Kelme–Costa Blanca started eight), so the Giro began with a peloton of 170 cyclists.

In addition, this race lacked an opening prologue like the previous year had.

For the general classification, calculated by adding each cyclist's finishing times on each stage, and allowing time bonuses for the first three finishers on mass-start stages, the leader received a pink jersey.

Raimondas Rumšas (LIT) Other less well-known classifications, whose leaders did not receive a special jersey, were awarded during the Giro.

Other awards included the Combativity classification, which was a compilation of points gained for position on crossing intermediate sprints, mountain passes and stage finishes.

[11] Colombia–Selle Italia was the most successful in avoiding penalties after not being penalized during the race, and so won the Fair Play classification.