OFFICIAL: Egan Bernal to race Vuelta a Catalunya, Geraint Thomas makes season debut for INEOS Grenadiers

It was reported yesterday that Egan Bernal would restart his season at the Settimana Internazionale Coppi e Bartali, but INEOS Grenadiers was quick to correct that, as the Colombian is confirmed to be racing at the Volta a Catalunya.

Bernal suffered a crash on the opening day of the Vuelta a San Juan which led to a knee injury that kept him off the bike for several weeks following the Argentinian race. It was a pebble in his shoe as he had to restart his training process recently, but has confirmed travelling to Europe, and his first competition back will be in the Catalan race which features three high mountain stages where he will be testing his form.

"Shall I tell you something? These last few days in Colombia have been a blast," Bernal wrote on social media. "After some ups and downs, I'm still with the mentality of getting back to my best version. Do you know why? I have had the help of many people (family, team, friends, doctors). I am not Superman, but I want to inspire people."

Geraint Thomas, who is aiming at the Giro d'Italia, will also be starting his season here following injuries that delayed his start to the season. Luke Plapp and Ethan Hayter most likely will carry the leadership responsibilities throughout the race with GC and stage wins on their mind, whilst the lineup is completed by Jonathan Castroviejo, Salvatore Puccio and Ben Tulett.

INEOS Grenadiers for Volta a Catalunya: Egan Bernal, Jonathan Castroviejo, Ethan Hayter, Luke Plapp, Salvatore Puccio, Geraint Thomas and Ben Tulett.