American team BMC Racing have been in top form already this season, with English rider Steve Cummings putting the success down to greater clarity in their aims and greater backin across the board from behind the scenes. Cummings is the among the riders who has profited most, finishing second behind team-mate Taylor Phinney in Dubai before winning the Tour Méditerranéen, both courtesy of strong time trials and backed by consistent efforts in the road stages.

Phinney’s success in the inaugural Dubai Tour also showcased his all-round talent, as he followed up a strong time trial by leading out the sprint the following day on his way to third place on the stage. With his talent beginning to mature, the American could well feature at the sharp end of much bigger races this year, too.

Compatriot Tejay van Garderen, likewise, reminded everyone why he is seen as such as a big talent with second at the Tour of Oman, courtesy of a strong ride on Green Mountain.

At the other end of the age scale, Australian veteran Cadel Evans showed his class and experience to win a stage in his home country on his way to second overall at the Tour Down Under. Though he narrowly missed out on the final ochre jersey of race winner, his form certainly stands him in good stead as he builds to the Giro d’Italia.

And with confidence flowing, Evans may not be the only BMC Racing man to attract big headlines this season.