Ciolek signs with Quick Step
Gerald Ciolek has joined the likes of Niki Terpstra, Marc de Maar and Kristof Vandewalle by signing to Team Quick Step for the 2011 season. The German rider is coming to Quick Step from Team Milram, which is collapsing at the end of the season due to the
departure of their main sponsor.
“It’s wonderful to have the opportunity to ride with a Team Quick Step jersey," said Ciolek. "It is a dream come true for me. I always looked upon this team with admiration and great esteem. I want to thank my current team for all they did for me throughout
the years. I am looking forward to starting this new adventure."
Before Milram, Ciolek rode for HTC-Columbia, and when Milram announced their closure, the German’s former team publicly invited his return, but the rider opted to join the Belgian team instead. The 23-year-old sprinter will join the likes of Francesco Chicchi
and Tom Boonen.
“Ciolek’s arrival, as well as the return of Chicchi, represent a major point of strength for our team, especially where sprints are concerned," said team manager Patrick Lefevere. "And not just that-Ciolek, together with some other new important arrivals,
like that of Dutch champion Niki Terpstra, is a fundamental step in enhancing our team for next season.”
Ciolek was the Under-23 World Champion, won the German national championship in 2005, at 18 years old, and took his first Grand Tour stage win in the 2009 Vuelta a Espana. He supported Niki Terpstra at Team Milram and will continue to do so in 2011, since
both riders are making the transfer to Quick Step, well known as among the world’s best Classics teams.
"I'm very glad to be able to race next year in a top team like team Quick step," said Terpstra. "Personally, this is a great opportunity and I hope to repay the faith Patrick Lefevere has shown in me with performances that will measure up to his expectations."
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