Tankink out of Sanremo

Rabobank's Bram Tankink will miss the first classic of the 2008 season when he sits out Milan Sanremo this weekend. The Dutchman has had to withdraw from the race due to an irritation in his right knee.

The withdrawal is a disappointing blow for the rider's Rabobank squad, with Tankink switching from Belgian's top classics team Quick Step to help strengthen Rabobank's classic squad over the winter.

Koos Moerenhout replaces Tankink in Rabobank's Milan Sanremo squad. Tankink should be cleared to continue training after a two days of rest.