Spain holds on to 'Llaneras effect'

The Spanish track team is regrouping after the retirement of double-Olympic medallist Joan Llaneras. The Majorcan stepped down from high level competition, but now acts as an advisor to the team.

Spanish national coach Salvador Cabeza de Vaca told Marca.com that Llaneras will certainly be missed on the track. The squad is now looking to young riders like Contentpolis road professional Eloy Teruel, who placed second in the points race in the Manchester World Cup. "[Teruel] is a great talent," he said. "To take over from Joan Llaneras is a big responsibility, but also an extra motivation."

Leire Olaberria, a bronze medalist in the points race in Beijing, will take on the endurance events including the newly-added women's Omnium. Toni Tauler, Llaneras' silver medal Madison partner, will also be on tap to help the Spanish team achieve its goals in the team pursuit and endurance events.

Spanish selection for Pruszkow: Sergi Escobar, Toni Tauler, David Muntaner, Unai Elorriaga, Iban Leanizbarrutia, Albert Torres, Alfred Moreno, José Antonio Escuredo, Itmar Esteban, Juan Peralta and Ana Usabiaga, Alvaro Alonso, Hodei Mazkiarán, David Alonso, Eloy Teruel, Leire Olaberria, Gema Pascual and Helena Casas.