In terms of team backing, Chris Froome (Sky) can have no complaints about the quality of the squad that has been selected to support him in the World road race Championships that will take place in Florence, Italy, on September 29.

Yesterday British Cycling announced the line-up of the men’s team, and current Tour of Britain race leader Bradley Wiggins (Sky) has been named as part of the line-up which will support Froome. The undulating course could prove to be well-suited for Froome’s characteristics as a rider.

The past two winners of the Tour de France have had a less than trouble-free relationship at times but in recent comments to British media, Wiggins explained that he would do a professional job and help his successor as Tour-conqueror in Florence.

Last year’s Tour of Britain winner Jonathan Tiernan Locke has also been included in the team; he has had a troublesome first year with Sky but is hoping to rediscover his former strength in Italy.

The impressive British line-up is rounded out by Mark Cavendish, Steve Cummings, Josh Edmondson, Ian Stannard and Geraint Thomas. National TT champion Alex Dowsett and Wiggins will do the time trial earlier in the week, with Wiggins seen as one of the main favourites to walk away with the title and the gold medal.

“Both Bradley and Alex have shown great time trial form this season and I know both of the guys are up for this competition,” said British Cycling’s performance director Dave Brailsford according to Velonation.com.

“Looking at the men’s road race team, we have real strength and depth in the team, and it’s a real boost for us to have two Tour de France winners in there along with high-calibre support from the likes of Cav, Geraint, Steve and Ian.”

British squad for Worlds road Race:

Mark Cavendish, Steve Cummings, Josh Edmondson, Chris Froome, Ian Stannard, Geraint Thomas,
Jon Tiernan Locke and Bradley Wiggins.