Robert Gesink underwent cardiac surgery less than four months ago. Despite this, he was full of ambition at the start of the Vuelta a Espana yesterday, where he hopes for a top 10 position overall.

"Especially with my history in the results here, I see such a result as possible," Gesink said. The 28-year-old from Achterhoeker has taken part in the Tour of Spain three times before, and was twice sixth and seventh once. 

In those years, the competition was perhaps less than is now the case, though it is not important for Gesink. "I am someone who still is primarily concerned with themselves. During those three weeks, I'll see who falls through or just passing very strong. Then you finally get an idea of how you stand in the field. It can be very painful or enlightening. '

Gesink shares leadership within the Belkin team with Wilco Kelderman. "We have both have GC ambitions. I do not expect there to be big differences in the first two weeks. If this be so, then I'm old and wise enough to know what I have to do. We know each other well, so we'll find out. Wilco has bested many of us this year already."