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Team Sky has named British riders Chris Froome, Peter Kennaugh, Geraint Thomas and Ian Stannard for the 100th edition of the Tour de France, which starts in Corsica on Saturday 29 June.
Froome, 28, will lead the team as he attempts to become the second British rider to win the Grand Tour after the success of Sir Bradley Wiggins in 2012.
Peter Kennaugh and Ian Stannard make their Tour de France debuts while for Thomas it is a fourth appearance in Le Tour having made his first appearance in 2007.
Australia's Richie Porte, Norway's Edvald Boasson Hagen, Belarus duo Vasil Kiryienka and Kanstantsin Siutsou and David Lopez of Spain complete the team.
Team Sky Team Principal Sir Dave Brailsford said: “Making the final selection of riders has been especially tough this year but we believe that we've found the right combination for the Tour de France. We have a group of nine riders that are all in great form and ready for the challenge ahead.
“We have got a very strong squad for the Tour and we’re all looking forward to getting underway.”
Chris Froome
“The Tour de France has been the main goal for Chris this season and he goes into the race in great shape. With four stage-race wins this year Chris has not only grown as a rider but also importantly as a leader.
“Around him are eight quality riders who have each earned their place in the team. They will add the climbing ability and the engines to provide the perfect support for Chris, especially in the crucial mountain stages.
“We've seen what this group are capable of at the Dauphine and all have raced with Chris successfully at some stage this year.
“We have got a very strong squad for the Tour and we’re all looking forward to getting underway.”
Team leader Chris Froome, who has won four of the five races he has competed in this year, said: “I’m delighted with the balance in this team and every one of these riders is going to play a pivotal role once the racing begins.
"Most of us were at the Criterium du Dauphine and I was hugely impressed there with the way the team came together in control of the leader’s jersey.
“It gave me huge faith and I could not be happier with the selection."
