Illes Balears had a reasonably good 2005 season with Karpets in the Giro, and ‘elasticman’ Mancebo in both Tour the France and Vuelta a España. Valverde’s knee injury came as a blow for the team and rider, just after the big win in the stage where he beat Lance Armstrong on the finishline. Also, sprinter Galvez had some involuntary meetings with the tarmac, which probably cost him a few very good placings in the various results. Reynes had a good pre-season but failed to put his foot down during. All ‘n all, no great victory for the team.


This former Banesto team will want to do better in 2006. Teamboss Echavari decided to get three allrounders, while Mancebo was the main name to leave the team. Oscar Pereiro (Phonak) had an impressive season with multiple wins, but could have done even better. Zaballa and Rodriguez came over from Saunier Duval. Zaballa, classic winner in 2005, is one of those guys you don’t want to be with in a leading group. Fast finishing and smart riding especially when he’s supported by Rodriguez, who’s the same type of rider. Pereiro though, will be their main man in the Giro d’Italia and possibly in the Vuelta. Valverde will be their main contender for the yellow jersey in Paris and also in some of the late spring classics. This Spanish wonderboy is immensely popular in his own country and many races suit him. Everyone is expecting him to get a big victory soon and willing him on to do so.


In support of these cyclists, Karpets will probably play leading role. Being a good time triallist and climber, when he’s good he might even lead the team in the Vuelta. Time trial specialist Gutierrez will have to play a supporting role as well, but in the southern classics he could play a major part. New signing Fertonani (Domina Vacance) is a serious force in the mountains and will support both Pereiro and Valverde in their quest for victory.


When we look at the sprintfinishes, Galvez has already been mentioned. Not yet fulfilled his full potential, but this could well be his year if he stays on his bike. Teammanager Echavari will have wanted to motivate him even more, since new signings Markov (Milaneza) and Aitor Pérez (Spiuk) are also fast finishers. It’s a pity they lost the Osa brothers to Liberty Seguros, because they were both quick on hilly terrain and good attacking riders, but with Zaballa and Rodriguez to replace them, and also Brard (Agritubel) in support, 2006 might well be a better season for the “Islands team” of Illes Balears.


Additions to the team:
Berthou, Brard, Efimkin, Fertonani, Markov, Pereiro, Aitor Pérez, Portal, Rodriguez, Zaballa, Perget


Left the team:
Arrieta, Mancebo, Navas, Becke, Escobar, Aitor Osa, Tauler, Unai Osa, Jonathan Gonzalez