Simon Gerrans (Orica-GreenEDGE) won't take another Milan-Sanremo title in 2014. The Australian champion has fallen ill overnight and will be replaced by Brett Lancaster in the Orica-GreenEDGE line-up.

ORICA-GreenEDGE’s Simon Gerrans  will not start Milan-Sanremo on Sunday. The 2012 Milan-Sanremo champion has been battling allergies for the last few weeks and fell ill overnight. His sickness in conjunction with his allergies has left him in no position to start La Primavera.

“Simon came down sick overnight,” said White. “The decision was taken today that he would not start. He’s not in any state to race any race let alone our longest and one of our most difficult races of the year in 24 hours.”

“Today’s news comes as a big disappointment for Simon and the team, but we need to look ahead,” White added. “Other riders will now get the chance to step up in the absence of our team’s most reliable athlete.”

White had originally identified a two-pronged approach to the team’s tactics on Sunday, saying ORICA-GreenEDGE would save Gerrans for the Poggio while the rest of the team would support Michael Matthews should the race eventuate in a reduced bunch sprint. In Gerrans’ absence, Brett Lancaster will line-up in Milan and Simon Clarke will assume additional responsibility.

“Not too much will change in terms of our plans for tomorrow,” said White. “Michael will stay our option for the sprint but now Simon Clarke will be given more freedom in the final.”

“Brett adds a wealth of experience to the roster,” White continued. “He will be a very valuable asset for Michael in his pursuit of a big ride tomorrow.”

ORICA-GreenEDGE for Milan-Sanremo:

Brett Lancaster
Daryl Impey
Jens Keukeleire
Luke Durbridge
Mathew Hayman
Michael Matthews
Simon Clarke
Svein Tuft