Cannondale
"New domestiques for Sagan!"
Predicted Finish: 15th
Team Sagan is back for another season in the big time, now with more guys to be overshadowed by the man from one of those countries that starts with Slov and has the same flag as the other one. Bennati, Moser and Caruso may get some points, but the Slov who is more famous for being able to do cool but completely useless stuff with his bike is going to be the deciding factor of the Italian team's season. Fortunately for them though, they have maintained their superstar core of riders who would maybe get a podium in your local Under 12's fun ride, so at least their manager is sticking with their roots. If Sagan fails; they fail. If Sagan has an amazing season, then they still don't do very well but at least they survive.
Main Signing: Daniele Bennati
Leaders: Peter Sagan, Peter Sagan, Peter Sagan, Peter Sagan
Top Talent: Peter Sagan
Strength: Peter Sagan
Weakness: Everyone except Peter Sagan
Team Europcar
"Now with 60% less Communism!"
Predicted Finish: 13th
Finally Europcar have deciced, or rather been forced to, move up to the World Tour. However, having lost Kim-Po Ding or Po-Ding Kim or Ding-Pong Il or whatever his name is, they have lost one of their main climbers and time-trialists. Fortunately they've managed to keep hold of most of their riders, like the guy who lost the Yellow Jersey by riding into a parking lot and the guy who everyone thought would be good but ended up not being that good. Lue Khamse Khampan remains as their cobbles leader, although he will no doubt be left fuming after the team's management failed to tap into the glorious talent pool that is his home country of Laos. He had a pretty good debut season, but without Sebastian Turgot he may not be as effective. Surprisingly, Europcar have also signed someone they need, with Andrea Guardini joining to stop Bryan Coquard sucking other peoples wheels more than 7 year olds suck on lollipops. At least, that is when they race at the same time, which will probably be never.
Main Signing: Andrea Guardini
Leaders: Pierre Rolland, Thomas Voeckler, Bryan Coquard, Lue Khamse Khampan
Top Talent: Bryan Coquard
Strength: Very well rounded - competitive in all areas
Weakness: No real winners
