Cannondale will line up a strong roster at the Tour of Qatar and will again be led by Elia Viviani. Eager to finish off his preparation for the Track World Championships, the Italian will target a stage win on the flat and windy course.

The six stages of the Tour of Qatar will be the focus for Cannondale Pro Cycling from Sunday, February 9th, through Friday, February 14th. This will be the team's second race in the Middle East following the Dubai Tour. It will be a new and exciting challenge among some of the best sprinters in the world, including Elia Viviani.
 
After his debut at Tour Down Under, where he placed 3rd in the 4th stage, the Italian sprinter is ready to face the last race before one of the most important events of his season, the Track World Championship in Calì (February 26th through March 2nd). Last year, Viviani made his season debut in Qatar, taking 5th place in the opening stage.
 
"I came back home from Australia with positive signals on my condition, and I look forward to competing strong in Qatar," said Viviani. "I'm confident that I will be able to fight with the best. Every day will be unpredictable."
 
"People may think that a flat stage has no risks, but the wind and consequent fight to keep the head positions will make Tour of Qatar really tough to manage in the finale. Experience will be a key factor in getting the results I need. I know that my teammates will make me more confident," Viviani added.
 
With Viviani as the appointed leader, Cannondale Pro Cycling has selected seven reliable riders to back him - Oscar Gatto, Alessandro De Marchi, Paolo Longo Borghini, Alan Marangoni, Kristijan Koren and young riders Davide Villella and Michel Koch.
 
"Tour of Qatar is a race where no distractions are allowed. You're always on fire and you need to be gutsy along each kilometer," said Alberto Volpi, the Directeur Sportif charged with leading the team at the race. "Every stage, with the exception of the time trial, could be a good chance for Viviani. We'll work to ensure he receives the best support. We'll also be ready with other key riders such as Gatto."