One notable sprinting absentee at Milan-San Remo will be Giant-Shimano’s Marcel Kittel, but that doesn’t mean the team lacks the firepower required to win the race.
John Degenkolb has been itching to remind everybody that the team is blessed with two quality fast men – and Milan-San Remo could be his perfect opportunity. Degenkolb’s palmares includes five stage wins at the Vuelta a Espana, all record in the 2012 race, and a victory at last year’s Giro d’Italia, and Milan-San Remo is the German’s best opportunity to add a Monument to his CV.
The 25-year-old German is in top form already this season, having won three consecutive stages at the Tour Mèditerrannèen after already taking the points jersey at the Etoile de Bessèges.
Fifth at the 2012 Milan-San Remo and 12th last year, Degenkolb has proved he has the legs to compete in the race. Now, he needs to prove he can take the next step up and be among the contenders for the podium places. With Kittel not taking part, Degenkolb can rely on the full backing of the Giant-Shimano squad and with that in mind he will be keen to flourish come March 23.
