A training crash and a winter illness mean Fabian Cancellara has yet to really show himself during the early part of this season. Having missed out on the top three in the time trials of both the Dubai Tour and Tour of Qatar, Spartacus has quietly gone about logging the miles and playing a support role for his team-mates instead. But when the moment came to test his legs, the Swiss ace was ready and willing.
Chris Froome’s attack was immediately covered by the Trek Factory Racing man, and Cancellara took charge of the four-man group as the headed to Al Bustan. While their attack off the front did not manage to stay out until the end, Cancellara showed he has plenty in his armoury ahead of the spring. And with team officials announcing any hour record attempt will not be happening immediately after the Classics, it means Spartacus’ sole focus is on domination of the cobbles. Tom Boonen showed he is in top form in Qatar but Cancellara is shaping up just as nicely.
