With Milan-Sanremo fast approaching, both Sky Procycling rider Edvald Boasson Hagen and Team Katusha’s Alexander Kolobnev quit Tirreno-Adriatico early in order to recover from niggling Achilles issues.
Both riders expect to be able to line out in Saturday’s tough Classic, with the retirements from Tirreno being precautionary rather than anything more serious.
“Edvald had been feeling a twinge in his Achilles during the last few days so we didn't want to risk making that any worse going into Milan-San Remo next week,” said Sky Procycling directeur sportif Marcus Ljunqvist.
The big Norwegian rider suffered from Achilles problems last season and so the team wants to play it safe. “He was riding OK but we pulled him out… There's absolutely nothing to worry about though,” continued Ljunqvist. “His form is great and it's certainly not serious, we just wanted to make sure he is 100% ready to go. He's had a good race here [in Tirreno] and it's been great preparation for him.”
Kolobnev also called it quits, deciding not to ride Tuesday’s time trial. He too has an irritation and wanted to rest it.
“It was after the final stage ending in Castelraimondo that I began with some pain in my heel. I think I forced too much because I see myself in a good shape. I have inflamed Achilles'heel, so I need a few days rest. I have decided not to force today and retire before the TT to get ready for Milan San Remo,” he said.
He said that there are many dangerous rivals that will have to be watched, including world champion Thor Hushovd, Boasson Hagen, former winner Oscar Friere, Italian champion Giovanni Visconti and Philippe Gilbert.