Argos-Shimano has now announced its team for the Tour Down Under. Marcel Kittel will be the leader, and will be helped by lead-out man Koen de Kort. Johannes Fröhlinger and Thierry Hupond will work hard to reel in breakaways.

"It will of course be our aim to take the sprint opportunities with Marcel in the team, but there aren't that many sprints," said sport manager Addy Engels.

Simon Geschke will try his luck in the uphill finishes.

"With Simon we have someone with us for the tougher stages. Some of the stage profiles are perfect for him and if they come down to a small group sprint he is fast," Engels said.

American Tom Peterson and German Nikias Arndt will make their first appearance in their first Tour Down Under.