The Cervélo TestTeam has announced its roster for next month’s Giro d’Italia. Once again the team will be built around 2008 Tour de France winner Carlos Sastre who Came third in last year’s race (after the disqualification of original second-placed Danilo Di Luca). He also won two stages, both mountaintop finishes at Monte Petrano and Versuvio, the famous volcano that destroyed Pompeii.
“Half of our team roster is the same as last year,” said Sports Director Alex Sans Vega. “This is very important because we will arrive at this year’s Giro d’Italia with a more experienced team, ready to give our best. Our team roster was selected with the goal of providing the strongest support for our leader Carlos Sastre who came third in last years’ Giro, and winning two stages.
“In addition we also had two other stage victories,” Sans continued, “notably in the final time trial with Ignatas Konovalovas who is again on this year’s roster. We are ready and optimistic and very much looking forward to participating in this year’s Giro.”
Sastre himself is also looking forward to the race where last year he fared far better than at the Tour de France. Despite starting the Tour as defending champion he visibly struggled and finished 17th overall. “Last year I had a great time at the Giro d’Italia and I want to go back,” said the Spaniard. “The fact that I haven’t won the Giro gives me special motivation, and this years route is very attractive for a rider with my characteristics.”
Cervélo TestTeam for the Giro d’Italia:
Iñigo Cuesta (Spa)
Volodimir Gustov (Ukr)
Ted King (USA)
Ignatas Konovalovas (Ltu)
Daniel Lloyd (GBr)
Gabriel Rasch (Nor)
Carlos Sastre (Spa)
Xavier Tondo (Spa)
Marcel Wyss (Swi)