BMC Racing boosts its stocks

Swiss-based Continental team BMC Racing has bolstered its lineup for 2009 with the addition of five new riders. Swiss riders Markus Zberg, Mathias Frank, Florian Stalder and Thomas Frei will add a shiny lustre to the team's roster while US rider Chad Beyer is an investment in the squad's future manpower.

Having been a mainstay at Gerolsteiner for six years, Zberg explained that, "Moving to BMC is an exciting challenge for me. I look forward to working with so many young riders and discovering a new series of races in the US." Another of his current Gerolsteiner team-mates, Mathias Frank, who is riding his second season as a professional, will join the Swiss squad as will Team Astana workhorse Thomas Frei.

With experienced directeur sportif John Lelangue at the helm, BMC Racing will feature an effective mix of youth and seasoned campaigners, as the former Phonak boss explained. "Despite their young age they bring a lot of experience to the table and will be instrumental in moving the whole team forward."

In addition to the new signings, bike manufacturer BMC will maintain its relationhip with the squad until 2010, with the goal of once more competing at the world's biggest races. "We have an identical philosophy and dream," said CEO of BMC Group, Andreas Georgiadis. "We want to work our way towards the racing level of the Tour de France."

BMC for 2009: Steve Bovay (Swi), Mathias Frank (Swi), Thomas Frei (Swi), Martin Kohler (Swi), Alexandre Moos (Sswi), Florian Stalder (Swi), Danilo Wyss (Swi), Markus Zberg (Swi), Chad Beyer (USA) Jeff Louder (USA), Scott Nydam (USA), Jackson Stewart (USA), Brent Bookwalter (USA), Jonathan Garcia (USA), Ian McKissick (USA), Taylor Tolleson (USA), Tony Cruz (USA).