“I’ve followed the prescribed rehabilitation program to recuperate physical strength after the surgery. I’ve had nothing but good sensations and I haven’t encountered any problems,” says Fabio Aru. “In light of this and in agreement with the medical and technical staff, we have decided that it will be useful to participate in the GP Lugano to try out my racing rhythm.

After that we will evaluate the situation to see what our next step should be.”

UAE Team Emirates will have plenty of strong members lining up for the start of the 185.6-km race next June 9. In fact, after the surgery to his iliac artery, Aru will be accompanied by Pogačar (in his first race after his success in the Tour of California) and Polanc (who has spent two days in the maglia rosa at the Giro d’Italia), in addition to Diego Ulissi.

Here is the complete formation being led by coach Rubens Bertogliati (Sui):

– Fabio Aru (Ita)

– Tom Bohli (Sui)

– Marco Marcato (Ita)

– Tadej Pogačar (Slo)

– Jan Polanc (Slo)

– Aleksandr Riabushenko (Blr)

– Diego Ulissi (Ita)