Robbie McEwen’s Katuysha team has decided that the sprinter will not ride the upcoming 100th edition of the Giro d’Italia.
In a message on the cyclist’s website, the decision to leave him off the roster was due to the course being so difficult with few opportunities for the sprinters. Also entering into the equation is the fact that McEwen has still not 100% after his crash in the scheldeprijs. He will instead concentrate on his build up for his main target – the Tour de France.
His program will likely include the Tour de Picardie, Tour of Belgium and Tour de Suisse to improve his condition.
“I’m disappointed to be missing the Giro but I will take the opportunity to ride more with Gert Steegmans and Kenny Dehaes and later this month and work on our sprint leadouts. I tried very hard to stay in shape and get to the Giro in form but my crash in the Scheldeprijs made it very difficult. My form in Romandie wasn’t encouraging, so maybe this is the best solution.”
This could benefit the Australian come July, as he will now be able to keep his focus toward adding another green jersey to his collection.