Philippe Gilbert

The 2012 world road race champion may have endured a frustrating campaign in the rainbow stripes, but there is little doubting his quality as an attacking all-rounder; a trait evident in all of his greatest victories, notably the Ardennes Week treble of 2011 and his storming ride up the Cauberg to claim the biggest win of his career last September.

With luck against him and form absent for large parts of the last two seasons, Fast Phil has been forced to rely instead on his fighting spirit and willingness to attack his rivals: on the flat, off the front of bunch kicks, and on short, steep climbs. Gilbert’s single win of 2013 showcased this spirit. Calling on all his inner strength, the Walloon passed Edvald Boasson Hagen in sight of the finish line to claim a season-saving Grand Tour stage win.