Combativity will be key for Cannondale according to team manager Roberto Amadio after the Green Machine unveiled an attacking line-up for the Corsa Rosa.
Two-time former champion Ivan Basso leads the team’s charge for a strong general classification, while sprinter Elia Viviani returns to bid for sprint victories.
But the likes of Moreno Moser and Daniele Ratto are also set to play a key role as Cannondale bid to target as many stage wins as possible during the three-week Giro.
Amadio said: “We aim to attend the Giro as one of the most combative teams.
“We want to play an attacking role every time we have the chance. And the riders’ selection follows this ambition.
We’re really confident in the entire team – the desire to show our potential will be the biggest push for this Giro.”
And team director Stefano Zanatta echoed those sentiments, adding: “We have a really well-balanced and equipped team.
“We have riders suited for every type of route and finish. Stage wins are our goals, as well as a good placement in the final classification.
“Ivan is a gutsy rider, he never gives up and we’ll support him to achieve the best result. It will be important to have him at the top condition in the last and hardest week of the race.”
Leader: Ivan Basso
The two-time champion retains the team’s backing for the Giro despite appearing off the pace so far this season. Basso missed the 2013 race due to a major case of saddle sores, and endured an injury-hit campaign throughout the year. Since returning he has yet to challenge for GC honours, being dropped on the major climbs at the likes of Tirreno-Adriatico and the Tour de Romandie. The veteran’s experience may prove important for the Green Machine as they target stage victories however.
Oscar Gatto: Rode last year for Vini Fantini and now makes his first Grand Tour appearance for a WorldTour team.
Michel Koch: A busy start to the season for the 22-year-old has been rewarded with a Grand Tour debut.
Paolo Longo: Vastly experienced one-day rider, who will support bid for stage wins.
Alan Marangoni: At 29, one of the older riders on the team’s roster – proved his strength with big shifts at Tirreno-Adriatico.
Moreno Moser: Desperate for stage wins after knee injury ruled him out of the Ardennes Classics.
Daniele Ratto: Leads the charge for stage wins having won one at the Vuelta a Espana last year.
Davide Villella: Young Giro debutant has already shown well in his first full season, winning King of the Mountains in the Basque Country.
Elia Viviani: Italian track ace turned sprinter was a perennial contender behind Mark Cavendish last year but won two Tour of Turkey stages before arriving in Belfast.
