Even though Nairo Quintana (Movistar) and Joaquim Rodriguez (Katusha) are regarded biggest favorites to take the spoils in this year’s Giro d’Italia, Cadel Evans impressed with his condition at the Giro del Trantino two weeks ago and the 37-year old Australian, known for his affection for riding in Italy, will enjoy a support of exceptionally reliable gregario – Samuel Sanchez, eager to help him in decisive moments.

BMC Racing decided to throw Sanchez a lifeline when his future in the professional cycling was on stake following the folding of Euskaltel-Euskadi team. The 36-year old Spaniard already proved to be a valuable signing when he set up Philippe Gilbert perfectly for his victorious attack at the Amstel Gold Race and aims to continue in the same line while working for Evans during the Giro d’Italia.

The 37-year old Australian was the first BMC rider to warmly welcome Sanchez in the squad on his birthday back in February and reportedly veterans got along perfectly well. While personal relations between professionals may seem insignificant, having such a strong and devoted support can make a real difference in the highly anticipated level-pegging rivalry.

Sanchez came agonizingly close to win a mountain time trial in last year’s edition of the Italian grand tour and eventually finished the event 12th in the general classification, but the 36-year old Spaniard is ready to give up on his personal ambitions to selflessly support Evans in his quest for a victory in the three-week event.

“My role in the squad is all about being there for Cadel in all decisive moments, to help him on final kilometers of most difficult stages,” Sanchez told Asturian public television RTPA.

“And my mentality has to be the same as while being a leader, I cannot relax, because I have a huge responsibility, too. I was signed to stay with the team leader in the hard times, which is probably what they were missing in the past.”