Although individual wins have been in short supply for the 24-year-old Italian this year, he has been a constant thorn in Mark Cavendish’s side all year. A consistent challenger to Cavendish at the Giro d’Italia – Viviani was second to the Manxman in stages one and six, and third in stage 21 – the Cannondale man also outsprinted a strong field at the Criterium du Dauphine – including Gianni Meersman – to earn his first individual victory of the year.

Having also secured a second and third place during Paris-Nice, Viviani then won two stages at the UCI 2.1-classified Tour of Elk Grove before once again going wheel-to-wheel with Mark Cavendish at the Tour of Britain. Viviani prevailed in stage one to wear the leader’s jersey before also finishing second twice and third in London in the final stage. While he was unable to replicate such form at the season-ending Tour of Beijing, Viviani’s performances will ensure he is earmarked as a serious contender for stage victories next season.