EF Education-EasyPost has announced its roster for the Vuelta a España, with all eyes set on Richard Carapaz, who will be aiming for his second grand tour victory. The Ecuadorian rider will have a strong team of helpers, all focused on one goal: winning the overall title.
Carapaz had an outstanding Tour de France, securing a stage win, the polka-dot jersey, and the super combativity award, making it a highly successful campaign. With renewed motivation, the 2019 Giro d'Italia winner is now fully committed to going after the red jersey in the Vuelta. Carapaz, who finished second in this race in 2020, hopes to challenge for the top spot this year. The American team’s intent to win the overall classification is evident in their carefully selected roster, as revealed on the team’s website.
In the high mountains, Carapaz will mainly rely on Jefferson Alexander Cepeda, Rigoberto Uran, and Darren Rafferty. For Uran, this will be his final grand tour; the 37-year-old Colombian last tasted victory with a stage win in the Vuelta two years ago. In contrast, this will be the first grand tour for Rafferty. The 21-year-old Irishman has already shown he has strong climbing legs and is eager to start in Portugal.
Alongside Uran, another seasoned rider, Rui Costa, will be at the start. The American team is further bolstered by Harry Sweeney, James Shaw, and Owain Doull. Doull, in particular, will be tasked with doing the dirty work in the flat stages, ensuring his leader stays safe in the peloton. The Vuelta kicks off on Saturday with an individual time trial through the streets of Lisbon.
Selection EF Education-EasyPost
Richard Carapaz
Jefferson Alexander Cepeda
Rigoberto Uran
Darren Rafferty
Rui Costa
Owain Doull
Harry Sweeney
James Shaw
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