Alpecin-Premier Tech Finalizes Milan-Sanremo Roster as Kaden Groves Misses Out

Alpecin-Premier Tech has confirmed the seven-man squad tasked with securing victory at Milan-Sanremo, the opening Monument of the 2026 cycling season. The Belgian outfit arrives at the start in Pavia with a tactically versatile lineup featuring former champions Mathieu van der Poel and Jasper Philipsen.

Also read: How to watch Milano-Sanremo 2026

Van der Poel enters the race as the primary favorite following a dominant start to the year. His early season account includes a victory at Omloop Het Nieuwsblad and two stage wins during Tirreno-Adriatico. Supporting the Dutchman’s bid for a second title is Jasper Philipsen, who recently found success at Nokere Koerse on Wednesday. The presence of two top-tier finishers gives the team multiple options for the final kilometers on the Via Roma.

Core Support and Notable Absences

The tactical support for the two leaders consists of Tim Marsman, Edward Planckaert, and Emiel Verstrynge. This core is bolstered by the experience of Michael Gogl and Swiss breakaway specialist Silvan Dillier. Their primary objective involves controlling the pace before the critical climbs of the Cipressa and the Poggio.

“Kaden Groves, who finished fifth in last year’s edition, is the most significant omission from the roster due to persistent knee issues.”

The absence of Groves, who withdrew from Tirreno-Adriatico earlier this month, removes a vital climbing sprinter from the team’s arsenal. With the Australian sidelined, Van der Poel is expected to face heavy pressure from rivals like Tadej Pogacar. The Slovenian is widely anticipated to initiate an aggressive move on the Cipressa to disrupt the sprinters and finally claim his first Milan-Sanremo victory.

Also read: Milano-Sanremo 2026 Winner Odds

Confirmed Alpecin-Premier Tech Lineup

Follow TipsGG for post-race analysis and full results from the 2026 Monument season.