Team MTN-Qhubeka will take on the Trofeo Laigueglia today following their successful debut in the Italian event last season.
Gerald Ciolek finished in a fine fifth place last year when the team took on their first ever European race as a Professional Continental team.
This year Ciolek will be racing at the Ruta Del Sol and so it will be up to the young Italian, Kristian Sbaragli, to lead the team during Laigueglia.
Speaking to Sports Director Jens Zemke, Zemke justified Sbaragli’s leadership role.
“Kristian deserves the chance to have the team ride for him, after a strong performance and a top ten in the Mallorca Challenge.
“He made a huge step and if he is climbing strong enough we have a fast guy for the downhill finish”.
Team MTN-Qhubeka p/b Samsung will not have all their eggs in one basket though.
“Jay Thomson is coming from SA with two medals from the Nationals. He will be motivated as well and could maybe surprise in a race like this,” Zemke added.
Trofeo Laigueglia (Italy) – (February 21/UCI 1.1)
Kristain Sbaragli (ITA)
Martin Reimer (GER)
Jay Thomson (RSA)
Songezo Jim (RSA)
Dennis van Niekerk (RSA)
Johann van Zyl (RSA)
Meron Russom (ERI)
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