Although Almeida carries big ambitions, he will be supported in the mountains by a group of puncheurs. It's a team that shouldn't have an easy time in the passes, however in the hilly stages they should thrive. With
Alessandro Covi,
Diego Ulissi and
Davide Formolo the team should also be capable of hunting stages in breakaways.
Team DS Fabio Baldato has added that the team will also be eyeing the sprints, as
Fernando Gaviria returned to competition and will be joined by
Max Richeze who will be doing the final race of his career. "Gaviria is also back from injury and is looking good again so we’ll have that card to play in the sprint stages," he said. "We have huge experience among our line-up and we are motivated for what we hope will be a beautiful race.”
In support of Almeida, Portuguese duo
Rui Costa and
Rui Oliveira complete the squad in support of the 23-year old.
UAE Team Emirates for Giro d'Italia: João Almeida, Alessandro Covi, Rui Costa, Davide Formolo, Fernando Gaviria, Rui Oliveira, Max Richeze and Diego Ulissi.