Vacansoleil also chasing Riccò
Italian climber courted by at least four teams
Dutch team Vacansoleil has confirmed its interest in signing Riccardo Riccò. The Italian climber is currently negotiating with several teams after having bought himself out of his Flaminia contract for 75,000 Euro.
"There are about four teams interested in him as far as I know," Vacansoleil team manager Daan Luijkx told the Telegraaf. "And we are one of them."
Other than the Professional Continental team, the Belgian Quick Step outfit of Patrick Lefevere has also confirmed that it would consider signing the controversial rider if its sponsor gives it the green light. Riccò was handed a two-year doping ban in 2008 after testing positive for CERA at the Tour de France. He returned to competition in March of this year and won the Tour of Austria in July.
"Judging from his rider profile, Riccardo fits perfectly in our team," added Luijkx, who just lost another promising climber - French Brice Feillu. "Riccò is a pure attacker and a rider able to go for the general classification in the Grand Tours."
It is no secret that the Italian would like to participate in the upcoming Vuelta a España, but Vacansoleil has not been given a wildcard for the Spanish Grand Tour. This lack of guarantees for the greatest races of the pro cycling calendar, which was also the reason why Feillu will leave the team at the end of 2010, may also be a problem in the contract negotiations with Riccò.
Get The Leadout Newsletter
The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!
Thank you for reading 5 articles in the past 30 days*
Join now for unlimited access
Enjoy your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1
*Read any 5 articles for free in each 30-day period, this automatically resets
After your trial you will be billed £4.99 $7.99 €5.99 per month, cancel anytime. Or sign up for one year for just £49 $79 €59
Join now for unlimited access
Try your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1