Lefevere denies new sponsor rumours

Quick Step manager Patrick Lefevere has denied claims that Specialized will become co-sponsor of the team in 2009. He has spoken to a number of possible candidates, but is yet to reach a final agreement with any of them.

"I have read here and there the figures that the claimed deal is worth," he told Belgian newspaper HLN. "We have already had a commitment with Specialized. I have spoken with the firm, but that they will become cosponsor is incorrect.

"I have many other avenues," he added. "I have submitted a dossier to many other companies and am waiting."

Lefevere's team is riding under the Quick Step banner this year after losing joint title sponsor Innergetic.

"Nevertheless, negotiations may be sluggish; some people think that I already have a deal," said Lefevere. "I have a verbal agreement with some current sponsors, but as long as there is nothing on paper, there is nothing official. I hope to be able to have everything finalised for the Tour of Belgium [May 28 - June 1] so that I can announce the new co-sponsor."