No Pate as Sky confirms Tour de France team around Froome

American veteran Danny Pate didn’t make the cut as Sky revealed a formidable squad to help support Chris Froome in a bid for a second yellow jersey.

Pate, a veteran of four Tours, including a ride with Sky in 2014, was on the bubble, but was not part of Sky’s selection revealed Monday with a heavy emphasis on climbers to back Froome.

“We’ve studied this year’s route carefully, and have selected the riders who we believe will best deliver our race strategy. Inevitably it is always a difficult decision,” said Sky principal Dave Brailsford in a team release. “We’re all looking forward to a great race and we have a strong team — led by Chris Froome — that’s hungry for success. The Tour is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in years and we’ve chosen a team of talented riders for the race.”

Making the grade were newcomers Nicolas Roche, Leopold Konig, and Wout Poels. Sky stalwarts Richie Porte, Geraint Thomas, Peter Kennaugh, Ian Stannard, and Luke Rowe round out the team. Also left at home were riders such as Sergio Henao, Vasili Kiryienka, and Spanish climbers Mikel Nieve and David Lopéz.

Froome said he’s keen to make up for his early exit from last year’s Tour, when he crashed out in stage 5.

“Last year’s disappointment is this year’s motivation for Team Sky. From the moment I crashed out in 2014 I’ve had the burning desire to get back to this year’s Tour in the best possible shape,” Froome said. “I’m ready and I’m fortunate to have a strong team around me selected to meet the many different challenges of this year’s race — from the cobbles to the climbs.”

Sky for the 2015 Tour de France

Chris Froome (GBR)
Richie Porte (Aus)
Geraint Thomas (GBR)
Peter Kennaugh (GBR)
Ian Stannard (GBR)
Luke Rowe (GBR)
Nicolas Roche (IRE)
Leopold Konig (CZE)
Wout Poels (BEL)