Team Sky have announced their preliminary roster for the Vuelta a Andalucia where Chris Froome will go up against Alberto Contador and Nairo Quintana for the first time. The Brit will be supported by a formidable roster of climbers that looks very much like a pre-selection for the Tour de France.

Chris Froome will face tough opposition in his first race of the year as Nairo Quintana and Alberto Contador will both be at the start of the Tour de San Luis. However, the Brit will probably be supported by the strongest team in the race that will feature two big summit finishes and a shrot time trial.

Froome can count on support from three riders that have finished in the top 10 of a grand tour as he will be backed by Nicolas Roche, Kanstantsin Siutsou and Mikel Nieve in Spain. Furthermore, he will have the always reliable Vasil Kiryienka at his side while Peter Kennaugh will complete the list of riders that excel in the mountains.

The team is completed by his trusted domestique Xabier Zandio who usually has the job of guiding him safely through the flat stages.

The race takes place from February 18 to 22.