Motivated And Experienced Roster

The six-day race through flat, desert terrain begins Sunday and includes a 10.9-kilometer individual time trial on Stage 3. With strong winds likely, Piva said experience and strength will be crucial. Four riders on the BMC Racing Team's eight-man roster – Marcus Burghardt, Philippe Gilbert, Swiss road champion Michael Schär and Greg Van Avermaet – have previously finished in the top 10 overall, with Van Avermaet winning a stage in 2007. "I know if we have a windy race, we have a strong team," Piva said. "For me, it is very important that we have good training for the classics and see the team working together. We may not have a true sprinter, but if the race is in pieces after an attack, our guys are strong and motivated and we will try to make the difference as a team." Piva said Danilo Wyss and Gilbert will be the team's designated sprinters while Tour of Alberta stage winner Silvan Dillier is also one to watch. Gilbert said he enjoyed a smooth off-season of training, unlike his lead-up to 2013, when he was often sidetracked by the responsibilities of being the world road champion. "I had a good winter and I feel very motivated to start the new season," Gilbert said. "I worked hard and was really focused on what I did and what was most important, which was training and rest."

BMC Racing Team Tour of Qatar Roster (Feb. 9-14):

Marcus Burghardt (GER), Silvan Dillier (SUI), Philippe Gilbert (BEL), Martin Kohler (SUI), Sebastian Lander (DEN), Michael Schär (SUI), Greg Van Avermaet (BEL), Danilo Wyss (SUI).