Why Can't They? Five Underdogs that Could Shock the World in Varese

We all know that Paolo Bettini and Oscar Freire are each attempting to make history in Varese at the world road cycling championships, and both are on great form. And we also know that Philippe Gilbert, Alejandro Valverde, Davide Rebellin, Sylvain Chavanel, and Stephan Schumacher too are the big favorites for the world road championship in Varese. But who can shock the world? Who can catch fire and surprise the field in Varese? A short list follows below.

Matti Breschel is on excellent form currently at the Vuelta. The 24 year old Dane has had a substantial 2008, including the win at the Philadelphia International Championship in June. The CSC one day star may try to make Varese his true breakout race, showing once and for all that he is to be reckoned with from 2009 forward.

Breschel's teammate Fabian Cancellara, if he decides to ride, must also be considered a darkhorse threat. Cancellara has shown his mettle before on climbing oriented races, including his near miss in Beijing on the road course. Who says the three time world time trial champion can't spring away from the field and shock the world? After all, he is Tony Sparticus.

Another Fabian, Fabian Wegmann of the now defunct Gerolsteiner squad is the two time defending German road champion, and more than capable of slipping away for the win. He has a tenacious, clawing style that lends itself nicely to one day riding. Being smaller, Wegmann also is able to climb well, so there's no saying he can't take the win for his native Germany. His new team Milram, would be delighted to have a three time German national champion wear the Milkmen blue and white.

Nick Nuyens is lesser known when mentioning top Belgian cyclists. Tom Boonen dominates Belgian headlines daily, and just behind him are Philippe Gilbert, Greg Van Avermaet and Wouter Weylandt. But Nuyens is a wily veteran who has learned the tactical side of racing over the last few years. He has a ferocious attacking style, and when on form has a way of attacking at just the right time. And speaking of Van Avermaet, he should be a marked rider as well for the Belgian squad.

Michael Rogers placed top ten in Beijing a few weeks ago in both the Olympic road race and time trial events, and has felt better and better after a tough early season. Rogers has never been able to take a high-profile victory, so he has a lot to prove in Varese. If Rogers falters, Matty Goss can get it done in one day events, and has a solid sprint kick.

There are other darkhorses in the field at Varese, some of whom will be explored in coming days on this site. But the above riders all deserve respect from their peers in the battle for the rainbowe jersey.