The Tour of Spain is looming on the horizon with no fewer than 3359.8 kilometers facing the peloton as it travels between the popular resort of the Costa del Sol, Puerto Banús and Madrid.  As the third and final grand tour of the season, the Vuelta starts Saturday, August 22nd with a 7.4 kilometer team time trial between Puerto Banús and Marbella.  Ten days before one of the major objectives of the season, the IAM Cycling team has unveiled the names of the nine riders who will be called on to fly the Swiss team colors over the roads of Spain.

Sports Manager, Rik Verbrugghe took care to explain the choices made following the meeting of the team managers and Michel Thétaz, founder of IAM Cycling and CEO of IAM Funds.  

“The team we have decided to take to the Vuelta has been built around two different axes.  On the one hand, we want to give a chance to our young riders like Marcel Aregger, Simon Pellaud or even Larry Warbasse.  Young riders who are early in their careers and when they are still in a phase of learning, need to have the chance to get a grand tour in their legs, since this will help them progress and improve recovery.  These riders have a little less experience, and will have the chance to be guided by guys like Sylvain Chavanel and Jérôme Coppel.  With this mix, something positive and constructive should result not only for them but the entire team. 

"And then, our other focus will be to use a part of the IAM Cycling team to help Matteo Pelucchi, our sprinter. Vicente Reynes and David Tanner, for example, will be strong and important assets when helping Pelucchi to try and win those stages that have finishes that suit him.  Matteo has proved his level of fitness with two wins at the Tour of Poland, and he should be able to figure in the sprint finishes. 

"Consequently, our goal for this Vuelta will be to be present and aggressive everyday with our younger riders, as well as to win a stage.  We will not economize our efforts since it is by being up front and active in shaping the race that the riders gain experience, and that work pays in the end.”

Riders:

Marcel Aregger (S)

Sylvain Chavanel (Fr)

Jérôme Coppel (Fr)

Thomas Degand (Bel)

Simon Pellaud (S)

Matteo Pelucchi (It)

Vicente Reynes (Sp)

David Tanner (Aus)

Larry Warbasse (USA)