Young Romain Grégoire to lead Groupama - FDJ at Amstel Gold Race while David Gaudu skips the Dutch Classic

At Flemish cobbles, Groupama - FDJ found their new star in 21-year-old Laurence Pithie. Coming into Ardennes, the team is once again hoping for a revelation to carry the flag, while experienced leaders will try to arrive with their best legs.

Davud Gaudu won't be present at the Ardennes opener - Amstel Gold Race - as the Frenchman chose to fine tune his legs at French 1.1s this weekend. Instead, Stefan Küng will conclude his spring at the Dutch classic.

Valentin Madouas is yet awaiting a major result this spring, with 15th place at Strade Bianche, 13th at Dwars door Vlaanderen and 16th at Tour of Flanders clearly far from the 27-year-old's expectations. But the French champion is traditionally strong in Ardennes and thus he is not to be underestimated.

Gaudu's absence also brings bigger opportunity for young Romain Grégoire, whose arrival to the biggest hilly races is long awaited. As another talented 21-year-old in the French formation, Grégoire has already demonstrated great form with Itzulia stage win.

Groupama - FDJ lineup for Amstel Gold Race:
Stefan Küng, Rémy Rochas, Valentin Madouas, Lorenzo Germani, Romain Grégoire, Clément Russo and Quentin Pacher