In the 2009 edition of the Giro d’Italia Team Columbia-Highroad rode the perfect team time trial to put sprinter Mark Cavendish into the maglia rosa jersey, the first time a British rider has worn the pink leader’s jersey.

The nine riders tore around the 20.5km course in just 21mins 50secs, beating into second place the Garmin-Slipstream team. Lance Armstrong’s Astana team placed third, just 13secs behind.

“I wear the maglia rosa for the whole team tomorrow,” said Cavendish.

“The next few days will be sprints, which will suit me and the team. Obviously, the pressure’s off because of today, but we’ll try for more wins. I’ve got no problems wearing this shirt, so I’ll keep going as long as I can.”