The BMC Racing Team has sought to slightly downplay expectations relating to defending champion Philippe Gilbert in this Saturday’s Strade Bianche race in Italy, with both a directeur sportif and the rider himself suggesting that team fans may have to look elsewhere within its ranks for the most likely victor.
“"I know Alessandro [Ballan, the runner up in 2008 and 2011 – ed] is especially in good shape and motivated,” said assistant directeur sportif Fabio Baldato.
The team will comprise Ballan, Gilbert, Tour de France champion Cadel Evans, Martin Kohler, Marco Pinotti, Greg Van Avermaet and George Hincapie, who is making his 2012 season debut.
Defending champion Gilbert is looking forward to competing, but suggests his fans should be patient. “I will start this race with motivation because it's a nice race.” However, by this time in 2011 he’d already taken a victory, namely a stage of the Volta ao Algave. This time round, he’s had to be content with fifteenth overall in the Tour du Haut Var and, last weekend, 31st in the Omloop Het Nieuwsblad.
“My feeling was not great last weekend like last year at the same moment. But there's still no stress for me. The season is long and my goals will come later,” he said.
He’s targeting the Classics this year, as well as the Olympic Games and world championship road race.
BMC Racing Team Strade Bianchi Roster (March 3):
Alessandro Ballan (ITA), Adam Blythe (GBR), Cadel Evans (AUS), Philippe Gilbert (BEL), George Hincapie (USA), Martin Kohler (SUI), Marco Pinotti (ITA), Greg Van Avermaet (BEL).