"With Duque, we get a solid all-rounder, who is capable to hold his own on different terrains and situation, but also a professional with a strong knowledge of European and GT racing," General Manager Claudio Corti explained. "It's not a mystery that debuting in three-week races is one of our 2013 goals, and we feel like Leonardo's signing is a good step in that direction."
The team will be hoping to build on its strong 2012 which included six victories, four in Europe and two at their home race Vuelta a Colombia.
Duque adds experience to the roster with 10 Grand Tours under his belt, having turned professional in 2004.
The 32-year-old scored top-10 results at E3 Harelbeke, Tour de Picardie, and Paris-Bourges in what was a short season with 70 race days. At the Vuelta a Espana, his best result was 9th on Stage 5. Duque has claimed just eight victories over his professional career.
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