The seven-day race across Italy kicked off with a team time trial along the Tyrrhenian Sea's coastline in Lido di Camaiore.

The two United States-registered squads come away from the Giro satisfied with their performances

The BMC Racing rider was 1:25 outside the top 5 entering Friday's mountainous stage 19

Who will carry the pink jersey to Milan? Contador is a five-star favorite, but he faces stiff competition from a cadre of talented riders

BMC Racing is aimed squarely at victory the Giro d’Italia’s opening team time trial, hoping to set up Caruso for a run at top-five in GC

With the upcoming retirement of Cadel Evans, Damiano Caruso will adopt a grand tour leadership role on BMC behind Tejay van Garderen

Moreno Moser impresses at Cannondale's U.S. presentation, but he's no Axl Rose

A few remaining spots on the roster will be filled in the coming days

Damiano Caruso hopes to keep the Giro's white jersey to Milan, while helping earn pink for teammate Ivan Basso