Astana DS Giuseppe Martinelli has confirmed his belief that Vincenzo Nibali and Fabio Aru will work extremely well together at the Tour de France. He also confirmed rumours that the duo would not be doing their final altitude preparation at the same location.

“We won’t go to the Tour with two leaders. Vincenzo is an extra weapon. I don’t want any rivalry,” Martinelli said, according to Gazzetta dello Sport. “Then the decisions will be made according to the race situation. I’m fortunate to have these two riders at my disposal. Managing them is easier than you think.”

Aru, training at Sestriere, told Gazzetta that Nibali, who is training on the Passo San Pellegrino after winning the Giro, is someone who he wholeheartedly trusts to help him.

“I have blind faith in Vincenzo. We’ve been together for four years. I observe my teammates and my rivals. I’ve learned a lot from Vincenzo, and I hope that I’ve given something to him too,” the younger of the duo told La Gazzetta.