Fullana and Orbea part

Spanish mountain biker Marga Fullana and her sponsor for the last several years, bike manufacturer Orbea, have parted company, according to Europa Press.

The team announced Monday that it would not renew its support of Fullana, which goes back to 2002, citing "differences of opinion in sporting philosophy." The team said it was "difficult" to make this decision "only a few days after the official team presentation" on February 16, "but we believe it is the best solution for the two parties."

In 2002 Orbea was virtually unknown outside Spain and Fullana was a recent world champion, winning the title in 1999 and 2000. Since then Orbea has expanded outside of its Spanish base, while Fullana has concentrated mostly on Spanish races. Fullana previously rode for Specialized, but was let go by the team at the end of 2001 after riding only four of that year's eight World Cup races.