Tinkoff get Flanders spot

The Belgian duo of Landbouwkrediet-Tönissteiner and Chocolade Jacques-Topsport Vlaanderen plus German outfit Wiesenhof-Felt, the Dutch team Skil-Shimano and big spending Russians Tinkoff Credit System will join the 20 ProTour teams on the start line.

Of the five squads from the second tier continental circuit that have been included Tinkoff, who include Tyler Hamilton, Salvatore Commesso and Danilo Hondo in their ranks, have had the biggest impact this season.

Pavel Brutt won GP Chiasso at the weekend while Mikhail Ignatiev claimed Trofeo Laigueglia last month.

Tom Boonen will go for a third successive victory in one of the 'Monuments' of the sport on April 8.