Crowd favourite German cyclist Jens Voigt will make his 11th appearance at the Santos Tour Down Under when he returns with the new-look Trek Factory Racing team. At 42-years of age Voigt will be the oldest cyclist in the peloton and will be joined by Luxembourger Frank Schleck who is making his debut appearance.

Australian Calvin Watson recently signed his first UCI Pro Team contract with Trek Factory Racing and will make his debut in Adelaide. Santos Tour Down Under Race Director Mike Turtur said he expects a strong performance from the team.

“With Jens’ wealth of experience and reputation for attacking and Frank’s climbing abilities, the crowds can expect some fantastic racing action,” Mr Turtur said.

“After a decade of racing here in Adelaide Jens is an icon of the Santos Tour Down Under and is always a favourite with cycling fans.

“His team won the Hindmarsh Winning Team jersey in 2012 and 2013 and they will be looking to defend their title next year.”

Voigt’s contribution to the Santos Tour Down Under will be recognised when he is honoured at the Legends’ Night Dinner on January 25 at the Adelaide Convention Centre alongside British cycling star Sir Chris Hoy.

Voigt said he looked forward to returning to the Santos Tour Down Under.

“(The) Tour Down Under has almost become like a ritual for me. Adelaide was the starting point of every season in the recent past. As it looks like 2014 will be my last season, it’s going to be extra special,” Jens said.

“I'll start my ‘farewell tour’ at the TDU. I'm really looking forward to racing there again and meeting with the fans in Australia, who are all very enthusiastic about cycling.

“I feel honoured that I am again invited to the Legends’ Night Dinner, which is always a highlight of my stay in Australia and where I always had great people on my table.”

The Trek Factory Racing team competing at the 2014 Santos Tour Down Under will be led by manager Kim Andersen and includes riders:

Laurent Didier (Luxembourg), Fabio Felline (Italy), Fränk Schleck (Luxembourg), Boy Van Poppel (Netherlands), Danny Van Poppel (Netherlands), Jens Voigt (Germany) and Calvin Watson (Australia)