American-based team BMC Racing arrive at the Giro d’Italia with what Cadel Evans’ has been quoted saying is his strongest support team ever.

The 2011 Tour de France champion harbours big ambitions of bettering his third place from last year, and arrives in Belfast on the back of a strong start to the season.

Brent Bookwalter, Steve Morabito and Daniel Oss were all part of the Australian’s successful squad in France three years ago, while former Olympic champion Samuel Sanchez is among the riders offering fiercely strong support this time out.

And Evans is relishing the opportunity to ride with such strong backing, saying: “I am delighted with the Giro team we have.

“I think it will be the best one we have had as a team and I am very happy with the support I will have.

“They are absolutely committed riders and these are really my guys I trust and know I can rely on.”

Leader: Cadel Evans

Australian veteran Cadel Evans made clear from the very start of the year he would target victory at the Giro, and having finished third last year he certainly has the calibre to do just that. The former world champion has silenced critics who point to his age by enjoying a fine start to the season too. A stage win and second place overall at the Tour Down Under was followed by Giro del Trentino victory, with a strong showing at the Tour of the Basque Country in between.

Brent Bookwalter: A key lieutenant of Evans at the 2011 Tour, the 30-year-old American enjoyed a strong showing alongside the Australian in Adelaide this year.
Yannick Eijssen: Giro debutant Eijssen, a Tour de l’Avenir stage winner, has completed the last two editions of the Vuelta a Espana.
Ben Hermans: Signed from the former Radioshack-Nissan in the winter, impressed on debut with a key support role at the Tour Down Under.
Steve Morabito: Experienced Swiss rider has been a regular domestique for Evans, including a key role at last year’s Giro.
Daniel Oss: Now in his second year with BMC Racing, took second place on stage 11 at last year’s race.
Manuel Quinziato: A key component of Evans’ 2011 Tour squad, arrives in Belfast well-rested since riding the cobbled Classics.
Samuel Sánchez: Veteran 2008 Olympic champion rode well in the Basque Country, supporting Evans and taking third on stage four.
Danilo Wyss (SUI): Swiss rider is set to compete in his fifth consecutive Giro d’Italia for BMC Racing.