GP Triberg-Schwarzwald and Sparkassen Cup face trouble

The GP Triberg-Schwarzwald and the Sparkassen Cup races in Schwenningen, Germany, may face extinction. Their sponsors are limited in light of the sport's doping scandals.

Both events are organised by Sauser Sport & Event Agentur, and Rik Sauser confirmed to the Sudkurier.de that they are endangered.

"There's no way to deny that," he said. Main Triberg sponsor Rothaus Brauerei has already withdrawn its support. "If we don't find another main sponsor for the GP, then there won't be a pro race next year." He explained that the recreational races would continue.

The city of Triberg is eager to continue the GP Triberg-Schwarzwald, however, the mayor said that "our engagement will depend upon how cycling develops. But we are basically interested in this race."

The Sparkasse, a banking chain, is reviewing its sponsorship of the Sparkassen Cup. Gerhard Vetter, spokesman for the company asked Rik Sauser to plan a new concept, which does not involve professional cyclists.

Team Gerolsteiner's Mathias Frank won the GP Triberg-Schwarzwald and Team Columbia's Gerald Ciolek won the Sparkassen Cup this year. (SW)