What to expect this year
The world number one team will be out to defend their title this season, and certainly have the riders to do so. The loss of world champion Rui Costa is a big blow, but with Movistar unable to promise him World Tour leadership it was always on the cards. Heavy investment this winter will ensure they have plenty of backing for Nairo Quintana and Alejandro Valverde this year however – with the collapse of Euskaltel-Euskadi providing Movistar with four signings for starters.
Quintana’s stunning season last year means expectations are high but if he can replicate the form he showed at the Tour, then he is a definite contender for the Giro. Whether the weight of expectation poses problems remains to be seen however. The departure of spectacled hardman Angel Madrazo – who impressed at the Tour of Britain – is another surprising one but just highlights the strength in depth Movistar have, and both Valverde and Quintana will be afforded strong, experienced support teams for both one-day and Grand Tour ambitions they have.
Who’s new for 2014?
Juan Jose Lobato (ESP), Ion Izagirre (ESP), Gorka Izagirre (ESP) Igor Anton Hernandez (ESP) all from Euskaltel-Euskadi, Adriano Malori (ITA) from Lampre-Merida, John Gadret (FRA) from Ag2r-La Mondiale, Jasha Sutterlin (GER) from Thuringer Energie, Dayer Quintana (COL) neo pro
Who has left?
Rui Costa (POR) to Lampre-Merida, Eloy Teruel Rovira (ESP) to Jamis-Hagens Berman, Angle Madrazo (ESP) to Caja Rural, Vladimir Karperts (RUS) released, Juan Jose Cobo ESP) to Konya Torku Seker Sport, Argiro Ospina (COL) released.
Riders to watch
Nairo Quintana – A stunning 2013 has seen expectations surrounding the Colombian rocket. A very real contender for the Giro d’Italia.
Alejandro Valverde – The former Vuelta champion’s all-round ability means he will undoubtedly compete on several fronts again in 2014.
Benat Intxausti – out-did world champion Rui Costa in Beijing with stunning ride on penultimate day, a valuable domestique capable of individual success
Brit on board
Alex Dowsett – the British time trial champion enjoyed a year to remember as he marked his Grand Tour debut with victory against the clock at the Giro. Injury saw his year fizzle out somewhat, but the former Team Sky man hopes to be on the start line for the Tour de France.
