Contract news

Mattan gives himself another week

Nico Mattan of the Davitmon-Lotto squad is not sure whether he will continue to race next year. The Belgian's contract wasn't renewed, and he is considering his options. "I know my value on the market," the 35 year-old told the Gazet van Antwerpen. "I'm not the kind of rider who will race for a a pair of knicks and jersey. On top of that, it has to be a good team, a team in which I can achieve my programme. I give myself another week." Mattan is being linked to Cofidis or the new Italian team Tinkoff Credit System.

Casper signed with Unibet

Cofidis rider Jimmy Casper has finalised his move to Belgian team Unibet. The French sprinter signed a two-year deal with the Continental Pro squad, which hopes for a ProTour license next year. Matthé Pronk, Jeremy Hunt and Luis Pasamontes also renewed their contracts with the team for another year.

"Casper has everything to be a spear head of our squad," Unibet director Jacques Hanegraaf told Sporza. "He's not only a fast sprinter, but can also have a good day in the classics." The 28 year-old won the first 2006 Tour de France field sprint this year.

Garcia Acosta renews with Caisse d'Epargne

José Vicente Garcia Acosta (Caisse d'Epargne) has extended his contract with the Spanish team for another year, according to wielernieuws. The 34 year-old, who will be entering his 13th season as a pro in 2007, has been a valuable helper to Oscar Pereiro in the Tour de France, and to Alejandro Valverde in the Vuelta a España this season. In 2000, Garcia Acosta won a Tour stage himself.