American team BMC Racing have enjoyed an impressive start to the season, thanks to Cadel Evans’ second place overall and stage win at the Tour Down Under and victories in Dubai for Taylor Phinney and the Tour Mèditerranèen for Stephen Cummings. American Tejay van Garderen has also given an early indication of his form, with second in the Tour of Oman on his first outing of the year, thanks to a strong ride on Green Mountain. The 25-year-old was fourth in Paris-Nice last time out, and though BMC Racing have not yet confirmed their team, ASO have already stated van Garderen will be among the starters in Yvelines.
Like overall winner Richie Porte, van Garderen’s success in last year’s race was thanks in no small part to his performances in the time trial and atop La Montagne de Lure but his all-round ability is not in doubt. Victory in last year’s Tour of California was also sealed with a strong ride against the clock, but he had already moved into the leader’s jersey thanks to his consistency. In a team full of strong riders van Garderen will be keen to prove himself, with some difficult squad selections ahead for the team management. Tour de France leadership is certainly not beyond the American, and this is his chance to prove his worth.
