Van Avermaet Set to Headline BMC Racing Team's Binck Bank Tour Roster

Greg Van Avermaet is set to headline BMC Racing Team's Binck Bank Tour roster when the UCI WorldTour seven-day stage race gets underway on Monday (13 August)

Van Avermaet, who narrowly missed out on a podium finish at the 2016 and 2017 editions of the race, is motivated about heading back to the start line this year.

"Binck Bank Tour is a race that has previously suited me and it's always nice to race in Belgium. I felt good at Clasica Ciclista San Sebastian and I was able to show that I am still carrying some strong form in my legs. I've finished fourth overall in the last two editions of the race so, I am feeling really motivated once again. This year will be a little different as I will be coming into the race right after the European Road Race Championships. We will see how my body reacts to that but overall, I think we have a strong team and I'm looking forward to the race ahead,"  Van Avermaet said.

Sports Director Valerio Piva said that BMC Racing Team is taking a strong group of riders that can not only work for Van Avermaet but who can also try to take their own opportunities.

"We don't have as many hard stages as last year and it's the last two days that are the most difficult on paper while the others are more sprinters' stages. Our first focus will be the time trial on the second stage and I think Stefan, who won the time trial last year and who is our specialist on this type of day, will also be a protected rider. Plus, if Greg can do a good TT, then that will put us in a good position moving forward. Jempy Drucker will be our sprinter and he likes this race too so, we will try to help him for the sprint. Then, all the other guys including Nathan Van Hooydonck, Loïc Vliegen, Francisco Ventoso and Miles Scotson will also have the chance to try and jump in a breakaway and take opportunities as well as ride in a support role."

Binck Bank Tour (13 - 19 August)

Rider Roster: Jempy Drucker, Stefan Küng, Miles Scotson, Greg Van Avermaet, Nathan Van Hooydonck, Francisco Ventoso, Loïc Vliegen

Sports Director: Valerio Piva (ITA), Allan Peiper (AUS)