In 2015, Etixx-QuickStep will have the world champion in their ranks. Michal Kwiatkowski will be riding in the rainbow jersey. And Tony Martin wants to reclaim his rainbow jersey in the time trial. “And I also get a unique opportunity to take the yellow jersey in the Tour,” the German says.

With the rainbow jersey on his shoulders, everyone will expect more from Michal Kwiatkowski next season. "I had to get used to this new status, but I do not think I've changed," the Pole told Sporza.

"I've always been a very ambitious rider. I aim for as much as possible. I'm still only 24, so basically my best years are still to come. Of course I want to show that I am a worthy world champion.

"My first real goals are the Ardennes classics. Then I look towards the Tour, although I realize that I still have to go through a learning process in that race. Don’t ask me what my limits are in the Tour. I don’t know them myself.”

Kwiatkowski will start his fourth season with Patrick Lefevere’s team. "Here I'm supported excellently. I feel much confidence. The team knows what I can do and supports me," he said

The Pole a special bond with Tom Boonen. "As a young boy I looked very much at him. I even bought the same shoes as he did. The day I was able to sign with his team, I was overjoyed. He knows what it's like to be world champion, but we don’t talk about it often.”

Martin targets yellow

This year the Tour de France starts with an individual time trial of 14 kilometers in Utrecht. Tony Martin is already dreaming about the yellow jersey. "I have a unique opportunity to take the yellow jersey,” the German told Sporza.

"It would be incredible if I could take the win. Especially now that German television has decided to broadcast the Tour live again. We couldn’t have asked for better pr."

Last year Martin lost both the time trial and team trial world titles. "I want to win both titles," he siad. "With the team we will certainly take revenge because we are the strongest team. Personally, I will ensure that I will be 100 per cent ready.

"I have learned from my mistakes last year. For some reason, I had done too much. I have to be more careful and listen more to my body. I am very motivated to do better at the Worlds in 2015.

"The hour record? That has again got a lot of attention. If you give it a try, everything has to be controlled in detail. It is a work for specialists in which many factors are important. One day it will definitely be time to try but I don’t know when.”