Robert Gesink will lead Team LottoNL-Jumbo during the Vuelta Ciclista al País Vasco next week. In the Basque Country, Gesink will be able to show that he progressed during the Volta Catalunya. The Spanish stage race is an important moment for Wilco Kelderman, as well.

“The development of our riders is always important,” Sports Director Addy Engels said. “For Robert Gesink, this race is shortly after the Volta a Catalunya. He seemed the reach a high level in that race, but the decisive GC days were too short. It’s possible that he needed that race to reach his top form.”

Difficult

That final step should make sure that he can play a role in the general classification fight in the Basque Country. “Normally, Wilco Kelderman can do that, as well,” Engels continued. “He missed the Volta a Catalunya, though. País Vasco is one of the most difficult races of the year and you have to be in absolute top condition to deliver there. We’re not sure if Wilco has that condition.”

Breakaway

Besides the two overall riders, Team LottoNL-Jumbo takes two guns for the stages. “Paul Martens and Enrico Battaglin are able to compete for stage victories if a bunch is going to the line. Besides that, Bert-Jan Lindeman might have a chance in the breakaways. This race is a new experience for Koen Bouwman. He can ride without any pressure to perform.”

Line-up:

Enrico Battaglin, George Bennett, Koen Bouwman, Victor Campenaerts, Robert Gesink, Bert-Jan Lindeman, Paul Martens en Wilco Kelderman.

Sports Directors:

Addy Engels en Merijn Zeeman.