Rabobank gets budget boost

The budget of Netherlands pro team Rabobank has been increased for next year, the bank's CEO Bert Heemskerk has revealed. Speaking to the Telegraaf newspaper, Heemskerk said that the team will be cashed up to the tune of 12 million Euros in 2006, making it the largest sporting sponsorship in the Netherlands.

"It won't be a spectacular increase," said Heemskerk, "but the team leadership will have some extra options."

Heemskerk also revealed that Rabobank intended to extend its sponsorship of the team to 2008, and hinted at developments beyond that. From next year the team's clothing will also carry the logo of the bank's investment arm, Robeco and Heemskerk recently let with Tour boss Jean-Marie LeBlanc to discuss the Tour starting in Utrecht in 2009.

"In that year we will open out new 105 metre tall head office in Utrecht," said Heemskerk. "A tour start would be a great way to open the building."