Erik Breukink and his cycling team Team Roompot hope to get a wildcard for the Giro d'Italia next year. In an attempt to convince the Italian organizers, Breukink was present at the presentation in Milan, where the routed was unveiled

"The first thing is to show your face," said Breukink, who in 1988 made a sensation in the Giro by winning the legendary stage over the Gavia in heavy snow. He was second in the final standings, after having finished third one year earlier.

Typically, wildcards are given to small teams from Italy. 

"There is one, perhaps two, for foreign teams. That's what we hope for, but there are several candidates," Breukink told NOS. "The gunfactor always plays a role."

His team claims to have three advantages that can ensure its place in the Giro which kicks off in Apeldoorn.

"The organizaters need to understand the importance of the start in the Netherlands which is of course to our advantage.".

Pieter Weening wll ride for the team next season and he is an experienced rider and a two-time stage winner in the Giro. He also wore the pink jersey in 2011.

"That helps. You always want such a rider in your race of course, but now he is even a team leader.

And finally Breukink thinks that his background - he was born in Rheden, near Apeldoorn - could play a role.

"It's my hometown. So I hope that can come into play."

Breunkink will meet with the organizers in early November,