The Maglia Rosa is Italian for the famous leader jersey at the Giro d’Italia. Just like the yellow jersey at the Tour de France, the pink jersey indicates which rider has the best overall time through all the stages.
The color pink is derived from La Gazzetta dello Sport, an Italian newspaper which originated the race and publishes on pink paper. To win or wear the Maglia Rosa, even for only one day, is an honor in professional cycling. It indicates talent, climbing capacity, and consistent performance at one of the sport’s premier events.