Omega Pharma-Quick Step for the first time in their history line up at the grand tour race with ambitions for a podium result in the general classification. Thomas De Gendt, one of the five Belgians in the roster for the Italian grand tour, is expected to be a key support to Rigoberto Uran on decisive mountain stages, but apparently doesn’t mind working selflessly for his captain as he believes that Colombian climber will be able to live up to very high expectations.

While joining Omega Pharma-Quick Step in the end of last season, it was made absolutely clear that De Gendt, equally brilliant as unreliable, will have to pay for his ultimate disastrous season in the Vacansoleil outfit, and not only his finances but also role within the squad would be significantly reduced.

Despite being downgraded to a domestique role, the 27-year old rider quickly adapted to new circumstances and claimed to be satisfied with his return to the Giro d’Italia as Uran’s key support.

Uran, who is personally closely related to the Northern Italy and finished runner-up behind unattainable Vincenzo Nibali (Astana) in last year’s edition of the Giro, is very familiar with racing on the Italian roads. De Gendt, however, can serve the 27-year old Colombian with an additional experience as a podium finisher of the three-week event from 2012 and claimed that he is highly motivated to support the Omega Pharma-Quick Step leader in his campaign as he has already proved to be capable of delivering satisfying results in grand tour races.

“If you have a top leader, you know you will not waste your strength without having a good reason. It’s a huge satisfaction when a leader is successful in reaching his objectives because of your help.,” De Gendt told Sporza.

“In the team time trial we will try to kick Uran’s campaign off to a good start. Then, above everything, we have to stay around him on climbs with as many riders as possible. Stage victory is certainly possible, but a podium finish is a beautiful goal itself.”

The 27-year old Belgian is very aware of his place within the team, but does not rule out looking for his own opportunities if the race develops accordingly to their wishes.

“In the time trials every man rides for himself and my condition is good. I hope to get some opportunities to show myself on some transitional stages as well, so I certainly don’t feel that I had to put my personal ambitions aside.”

De Gendt also revealed that he is pleased with Uran’s attitude as a team captain.

“He always tries to make jokes and remains very committed to his riders – he is always interested in how we are doing and certainly doesn’t behave like a star.”