German rider Bert Grabsch, who has been with Phonak since it started six years ago, was surprised and disappointed that the team folded in the wake of the Landis affair. "There was a curse on our team," he said, after so many of Phonak's success stories were tainted by doping. "But I understand [team owner] Andy Rihs. Indeed, no one understands this action as well as he does. I've seen Andy Rihs shouting for joy and I've suffered along with him. Andy Rihs did everything he could for a cleaner sport. I'm sorry for how it turned out."
Grabsch thanked Rihs for his commitment to the team and to pro cycling, and maintained a positive outlook for the future. "It will be difficult to find another team as good as Phonak Cycling," said the 32 year-old. "I want to keep racing. The sport is good. It must carry on."
Thank you for reading 5 articles in the past 30 days*
Join now for unlimited access
Enjoy your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1
*Read any 5 articles for free in each 30-day period, this automatically resets
After your trial you will be billed £4.99 $7.99 €5.99 per month, cancel anytime. Or sign up for one year for just £49 $79 €59
Join now for unlimited access
Try your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1
