Uran charts course for a Giro and Tour double

Etixx-Quick-Step’s Rigoberto Uran has detailed his 2015 plans, which will take him the start lines of both the Giro d’Italia and Tour de France.

After riding the Colombian road national championships, Uran will then head to Europe for the Classic Sud Ardeche, Strade Bianche Volta ao Catalunya, and Tour de Romandie before the Giro d'Italia.

The schedule means that Uran, who has finished second at the last two Giro editions, will join Alberto Contador in doing double.

"I plan on racing 'The Double' (Giro d'Italia, Tour de France). I will be racing the two big grand tours, which changes my calendar needs a bit," said Uran.

Uran is one of several WorldTour riders still looking to break through for a first Grand Tour victory. The 27-year-old is close to his prime but with Contador rampant and Colombian countryman Nairo Quintana on the cusp of greatness the task will be a hard one.

"The Giro is a special race where anything can happen at any moment, but my goal is to be there and ready for the race no matter what can happen each day," he said.

After the Giro, Uran will turn to the Tour, a race that he has missed the past three years after showing his promise in 2009 (51st) and 2011 (23rd).

"My approach will be different at the Tour than at the Giro. I will try to go there to do well, but it will be more linked to rediscovering the race and to stage hunt," said Uran.

"But of course I'd also like to do well in the last week, and give a hand to the team when necessary. About my program after the Tour, it is not yet decided.

"I want to focus on the intense part of my season that will be a great opportunity for me. I can ride the races I love and I am super motivated to do it."

SBS will broadcast the Tour de France and Giro d'Italia live on SBS. Full details will be announced n 2015.