Nys to Landbouwkrediet as of June 1

Sven Nys can start riding for Landbouwkrediet-Tönissteiner as of June 1, under an agreement reached between the Belgian team and his current employer, Rabobank. Cyclingnews reported yesterday that he was trying to get out of his Rabobank contract early. Nys had ridden for the Dutch team for 10 years, and had signed with Landbouwkrediet for the coming season.

Luc Versele, CEO of Landbouwkrediet, applauded the move. "I find the formula for 'cross riders a bit unlucky, that the contracts run from January 1 to December 31, when the season runs from September to April. The riders can change teams in the middle of the season and that leads to unclear and complex situations for both sponsors and fans," he told the belga press agency.

"We are particularly satisfied that Rabobank cooperated constructively in this solution which is good for the sport, which makes it possible for Sven to come to us now," he continued. "Sven can now relax and calmly prepare himself for the upcoming cyclo-cross season with our team."

Before then, however, the team wants to put him on the road, in the Tour of Belgium. That race starts, however, on May 28. Rabobank has already given its OK for Nys to wear the Landbouwkrediet jersey in the race, but the UCI must first give its approval.(SW)