Mayoral run-offs in Rome, Milan and other big Italian cities are under the spotlight to see how Premier Matteo Renzi's Democratic Party fares.

The contenders in the Italian capital are Renzi-backed Roberto Giachetti and the anti-establishment 5-Star Movement's candidate, Virginia Raggi, who could become Rome's first woman mayor.

Corruption scandals have tainted local politicians from both left-leaning and right-wing forces in Rome.

Sports fans will also be watching the vote, since Ms Raggi opposes Italy's bid for the 2024 Olympics.

In Milan, Mr Renzi's candidate is Giuseppe Sala, who successfully managed the recent Expo there. Challenging him is Stefano Parisi, a respected manager backed by the centre-right.

Naples, Turin and Bologna also have run-offs.

Mr Renzi heads the Democrats, whose unity has been eroded by some opposed to his take-charge style.

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