Lotto announces riders and goals for Vuelta a España

“Our line-up for this Vuelta brings together sprinters, climbers, and young talents discovering their first three-week race,” explains sports manager Mario Aerts on the team's website. Leading the charge in the sprints is Elia Viviani, supported by lead-out man Jasper De Buyst. “Elia has shown he can compete against the very best, and with Jasper he has great support in the finales.”

For the mountains, the team will rely on Eduardo Sepúlveda and Jonas Gregaard. “Eduardo and Jonas will go on the attack in the mountains,” Aerts added. The team is also focusing on development, with Alec Segaert and Liam Slock both making their Grand Tour debuts. “This will be a milestone in their development. We want to race offensively, make the most of every opportunity, and above all show the team’s colors day after day.”

Arjen Livyns and Lars Craps round out the roster. Livyns rode his first Vuelta last year, where his best result was a 7th place on a stage. Craps, like Segaert and Slock, will be racing his first-ever Grand Tour. The 23-year-old Belgian joined the team this past winter from Team Flanders-Baloise.

The Belgian team laid out its objectives clearly. “We’re heading into the Vuelta with a well-rounded squad, ready to show ourselves on all kinds of terrain. In the sprint stages, Viviani is our go-to rider, supported by De Buyst, one of the best lead-out men in the peloton. Their experience in Grand Tours will bring leadership and calm, helping guide the team through the race’s toughest moments.”

“In the mountains, Sepúlveda and Gregaard will aim to animate the race and get into breakaways,” the team continued. “Segaert will lead in the time trials and is eager to test himself against the world’s best on the biggest stage. Fellow debutant Slock hopes to gain valuable experience and show what he can do in the tougher stages. Livyns and Craps, as all-rounders, will provide crucial support across the different race phases.”

Elia Viviani