Uijtdebroeks, Kelderman and Tollett on tour in Switzerland: “Ambition is the ultimate platform”

For Visma | Renting a bike, Touring Switzerland is an opportunity to forget about the downward spiral full of crashes. Cian Uijtdebroeks returns after retiring due to illness at the Giro d'Italia, but he is not the outright leader. Wilko Kelderman and Ben Tollett are also at the start. “We don't have a clear leader, but we have many advanced pawns,” sporting director Mark Reeve said.

Uijtdebroeks still speaks of a “huge disappointment” when it comes to the Giro. “Unfortunately, the disease can never be completely avoided. […] It was the only right decision to go off course. “When I returned home, I did nothing for a whole week. This was essential for recovery. Then I left for Andorra to train at altitude. For the first few days, I had to take it easy.”

“I'm currently at a good level again. It's important now that I rest for a few days, and then I hope I can enjoy my time in Switzerland.” “Of course I am aiming for the highest possible ranking in the Swiss Tour, but first and foremost, this is a test to see where I am now. I hope to reach a high level. Wilko Kelderman and Ben Tollet will also receive protected status next week.

Sporting director Mark Reeve points out that Kelderman and Tollett, like Johannes Stone-Meetet, trained primarily with the Tour of Switzerland in mind. “We start without a clear leader, but with some advanced pawns. Ultimately, we have the ambition to compete for the final podium.

Uijtdebroeks, Kelderman, Tulett, Staune-Mittet are flanked by Attila Walter, Robert Gesink and Milan Wieder for the Tour of Switzerland. At the moment, none of these seven are scheduled to take part in the Tour de France, but after the failure of Dylan van Baarle and Steven Kruijswijk in the Dauphinee, one of these riders will likely be preparing for a trip to Florence.