Vuelta a Murcia in doubt

By Antonio J. Salmerón

According to sources close to event organisers, the 2007 Vuelta a Murcia is in doubt following delays in negotiations over broadcasting rights, reports daily newspaper El Faro de Murcia. The event is believed to be one of several Spanish events currently locked in negotiations with TVE National Television over broadcasting rights.

The failure to sign off on a broadcasting deal to date has left a €120,000 deficit in the event's budget, preventing the organisers from investing in the infrastructure required for the 27th running of the event. Should the race go ahead, some of the world's top ProTour teams are hoping to take part in the event, with Discovery Channel, Caisse d'Epargné-Illes Balears, Saunier Duval-Prodir or Lampre-Fondital having already shown interest.

Organisers are expected to make an announcement by week's end as to whether the event, scheduled for March 7-11, will go ahead.