Xabier Zandio

Rider Profile

One of the strongest and most reliable domestiques in cycling, Xabier Zandio has devoted a career to helping his team-mates achieve success. With 15 years as a pro already in his legs, the Spaniard is an experienced hand, especially in stage races, and he's happy to pass on that knowledge to the next generation of riders.

A winner in his own right at the Vuelta a Burgos in 2008, Xabi is most at home when the road ramps upwards, making him a valuable asset to any Grand Tour team. With six such call-ups in five seasons with Team Sky, he will again look to play a valuable role in 2016.

Q&A

Who inspired you to start cycling?

It was a neighbour who was always out on his bike. When I was 13 my mother finally let me join him.

First road bike:

My brother Inaki used to play pelota professionally and he bought me a bike with his first salary.

Childhood heroes:

I don't have many heroes but Pedro Delgado inspired me when won the Tour de France.

What do you love most about cycling?

It's my hobby and it's my passion so I feel incredibly lucky to be a cyclist.

Career highlight:

I don't win often so my Tour of Burgos triumph was a really special moment for me.

Favourite race:

The Tour de France is the biggest and the most beautiful race. I love it, but at the same time it is incredibly stressful and a very hard race.

What has cycling taught you?

How to organise my life.

Previous teams:

2001-2010 Caisse d'Epargne (formerly iBanesto.com, Illes Balears-Banesto and Illes Balears-Caisse d'Epargne)

Main interests away from cycling:

I like to spend time with family and friends. I also like other types of sports such as motocross and skiing.

If you weren't a rider, what would you be?

I'd be on the dole (laughs)!

Favourite film:

Gladiator

Favourite band:

Spanish pop, but in general I like everything.

Career Highlights

2002

Volta a Portugal - 1st stage one (TTT)

2005

Tour de France - 2nd stage 16, 4th stage 18; Clasica Ciclista a los Puertos - 1st

2006

Vuelta a la Rioja - 3rd stage three; Vuelta a España - 2nd stage 1 (TTT)

2008

Vuelta a Burgos - 1st overall, 3rd stage one; Vuelta a España - 3rd stage one (TTT)

2009

Tour de Romandie - 2nd stage 3 (TTT)

2013

Giro del Trentino - 1st stage 1b (TTT)