Garmin-Slipstream had a huge impact on the peloton in 2008. Their strong anti-doping message won them many fans, while their moderate results were enough to suggest that manager, Jonathan Vaughters, has a squad of huge potential. Highlights in 2008 included a stage win and day in pink at the Giro, Vande Velde’s strong ride at the Tour de France and Dave Zabriskie’s win in the US time trial championship. During the winter they strengthened by signing Olympic hero Bradley Wiggins from Columbia. The loss of Magnus Backsteadt shouldn’t effect the team too much.

 Star riders:

Christian Vande Velde: After years of loyal service for others, Vande Velde finally got his chance to shine in 2008. The former CSC rider grabbed the opportunity with both hands, wearing pink at the Giro, riding towards fourth place at the Tour and the overall at the Tour of Missouri.

Tyler Farrar: The former Cofidis sprinter was a highly sought after asset before signing Jonathan Vaughters’ Garmin in 2007. He’s paying back that faith with some impressive sprint finishes.

One to watch:

Dan Martin made huge strides in 2008 with an impressive win in the Route du Sud and a doggedly determined display at the Tour of Portugal. Despite illness problems at the start of 2009, his form has improved steadily. A possible Grand Tour climber in the making, who could even get his chance this July