It was assumed that Lance Armstrong would return to Team Astana because his long-time associate, Johan Bruyneel, is directeur sportif of that Khazakhstan-based team.
Armstrong confirmed those reports at Wednesday's press conference (“Armstrong to join Astana; resumes career at Tour Down Under”). He said after interviewing a few other teams, the decision to go with Team Astana became clear:
“I really trust Johan on every little deal of the program. I cannot imagine racing against him.”
Bruyneel engineered all seven of Armstrong's Tour de France wins from 1999 to 2005 on both the Postal Service and Discovery Channel pro cycling teams.
Bruyneel also has managed the three Grand Tour victories of Alberto Contador (above right), considered the leader of Team Astana. Shortly after winning the Vuelta a Espana this month, the 26-year-old cyclist told a Spanish publication:
“I've earned the right to be a leader, without having to work for it. And if Armstrong was there, the team might have to work in his favour, and that might prejudice me.”
Armstrong said he hasn't had a chance to talk with Contador, but wanted to urge him to remain with Team Astana.
“My main priority is the global (cancer) campaign. There's room for all of us on that team… Alberto, Levi (Leipheimer) and Johan. He's got quite a personality himself.
“Alberto is the best rider on the planet right now. I'm not sure I can ride that fast. I would encourage him to give this a possibility.”
Australia
Armstrong's announcement that he'll return to pro cycling at the Tour Down Under is a huge boon to that 6-day race that rolls out from Sept. 20-25 in South Australia.
Tour Down Under schedule:
Tuesday, 20 January – Norwood to Mawson Lakes
Stage 1 (140 km)
Wednesday, 21 January – Hahndorf to Stirling
Stage 2 (145 km)
Thursday, 22 January – Unley to Victor Harbor
Stage 3 (136 km)
Friday, 23 January – Burnside Village to Angaston
Stage 4 (143 km)
Saturday, 24 January – Snapper Point to Willunga
Stage 5 (148 km)
Sunday, 25 January – Adelaide City Council Street Circuit
Stage 6 (90 km)
Recent Comments