These past two years we’ve seen a lot of good cyclists leave this Spanish based team. Miguel Martin Perdiguero was signed by Phonak in 2004 and won several races since then. This year, a host of riders have left: Zaballa and Rodriguez both were strong last season and will be riding with Illes Balears in 2006. Giro d’Italia contender Garate packed his bags and left for Belgium to join the Quick Step squad. They were sorry to also see Chris Horner go. He was one of the revelations in 2005. Where other teams failed to intervene, Italian manager Gianetti succeeded in contracting Gilberto Simoni (Lampre-Caffita). “Gibo” will speerhead this team in the Giro d’Italia. What’s more, he can count on support, while this team oozes with mountain talent!


What to think about Gomez Marchante? Unlucky to break his collarbone halfway through 2005, he looked very promising indeed in the mountains during the year. He will probably head the team in the Tour de France, where he will be supported by Simoni himself! New signing Koldo Gil (Liberty Seguros) is young, but already has a few wins to his name. He’s a rider who can ride in support of the team and also play a leading role (Maybe Vuelta?). Simoni will feel strong in the Giro, when he will be supported by Pinotti, Zaugg, Trentin (Cofidis) and mountaingoat Piepoli.


Apart from these great mountaineers Saunier Duval has a good “flat” race squad. Although the Spanish never liked the spring classics up north, this team has a very versatile group. Trentin might just fill that gap this spring and also Cañada, Bertogliati and allrounder Mori seem likely candidates to perform well in the classics and smaller tours.
In sprints they will be looking to new Brazilian signing Pagliarini (Liquigas). With his old team a lack of competition never really pushed him to the limit. Now, competition will come from youngster Ventoso. Both are pretty fast and eager to win a big one and this could be the year they might achieve their goals.


Halfway into the 2006 season a remarcable come-back. U.K.’s David Millar will be back and signed a deal with Saunier Duval. The Scot will ride the Tour the France and might even try to win the prologue straight away, just to prove he can do without “chemical help” after his two year ban from cycling. An exiting new season for Saunier Duval, with high expectations for the three Grand Tours.


Additions to the team:
Benîtez, Dionne, Mazur, Gil, Olsen, Rinero, Pagliarini, Simoni, Trentin, Zárate, Fernandez de la Puebla, Mejias, Riccò, Millar


Left the team:
Casero, Cuesta, Dominguez, Edo, Garate, Horner, Rodriguez, Zaballa, Quinziato, Jeker, Ravaioli