Samuel Sánchez chooses Italy

Eight years after his only previous participation, Euskaltel Euskadi captain Samuel Sánchez is ready to return to the Giro d'Italia.

The Corsa Rosa has been mooted as a potential season goal for the 34-year-old for the best part of the off-season, and it now appears it is set in stone Sánchez will indeed again take to the roads of Italy in May. Igor González de Galdeano, who himself never lined up at the race, confirmed a decision has been taken.

"This year's Giro route could suit him", he told El Correo. "To help him stay at the front and with options, we'll field foreigners with an eye on doing a good team time trial.

"Samuel is 34 and, though he's still got many competitive seasons ahead of him and the Tour has always been our big goal, I think it's time we offer him a calendar that motivates him".

For those who hope to see Samu light up the roads across the border in France in July though, all hope might not be lost.

"We'll make a decision after the Giro whether he's in good enough shape to do the Tour afterwards", Galdeano said.

If 'Samu' does indeed make it to the Tour, he might join a star-studded line up: Mikel Nieve is already confirmed as team leader, and Igor Antón might also make an appearance.

Photo: Fundación Ciclista Euskadi