With no André Greipel on the roster, Lotto Soudal will have to rely on new riders in the Tour Down Under. Kenny Dehaes and Greg Henderson will take over the leadership role in the sprint stages while Adam Hansen and Thomas De Gendt could try to finish in the top 10 overall.

Belgian team Lotto Soudal is returning to the 2015 Santos Tour Down Under with a new title sponsor and a team of riders wanting to stamp their authority on the event.

Race Director, Mike Turtur today announced the return of Australian Adam Hansen to defend the Subaru King of the Mountains classification he won at this year’s event.

“Adam is a favourite amongst the fans and the peloton and I am looking forward to seeing if he can repeat his success from this year,” said Turtur.

“The Willunga Hill climb will again see the riders fight it out for mountain honours on the BikeExchangeStage 5, our Queen Stage.” 

The absence of Andre Greipel from the line up for the Santos Tour Down Under provides an opportunity for one of the young riders to establish themselves at the race and make their mark in Australia.

Thomas De Gendt joins the Lotto Soudal team for the 2015 season after spending 2014 with Omega Pharma-Quick-Step and will be making his fourth appearance at the race.

Turtur says De Gendt, Hansen and Kiwi Greg Henderson are all familiar with the race due to repeat appearances and know what to expect within the regions.

“The team combination of De Gendt, Hansen and Henderson will see an experienced race line up ready to tackle the course and give guidance to the other riders in the team,” said Turtur. 

“We are delighted to be returning to Australia once again and to the Santos Tour Down Under to introduce our new sponsor to the fans and show the strength of our team,” said Team Manager Herman Frison.

“We are aiming for a good overall General Classification with any number of our riders, as all have the ability to make an impact on the race.”

The Lotto Soudal team competing at the 2015 Santos Tour Down Under will be led by sport director Herman Frison (BEL) and includes riders: Thomas De Gendt (BEL), Lars Bak (DEN), Gert Dockx (BEL), Kenny Dehaes (BEL), Adam Hansen (AUS), Greg Henderson (NZL) and Boris Vallee (BEL)