Mads Christensen, new directors at Saxo Bank
Team Saxo Bank has announced the signing of Danish rider Mads Christensen and four new sports directors for the 2011 season.
26-year-old Christensen rode with Quick Step in 2005 after taking a medal at the World Championships in the under-23 road race in 2004, but returned to the Continental level in 2006. Bjarne Riis, owner of team Saxo Bank, has offered the Dane a one-year contract
with his local ProTour squad.
"I'm aware that signing with Saxo Bank-SunGard is a huge opportunity for me. Since my time with Quick Step I've been working hard, determined to achieve this great chance with the team where I can get the right guidance to take my level to the highest point.
To become a member of Saxo Bank-SunGard is a personal victory for me."
In 2011, current sports directors Brad McGee and Dan Frost will be joined by Tristan Hoffman, who raced for the team in 2004 and is currently working as sports director for HTC-Columbia.
"It was always my dream to come back to Riis Cycling and now I received the offer from Bjarne."
Former Italian sprinter Fabrizio Guidi will also be joining the staff after gaining 40 career victories before his retirement in 2007.
"I'm honoured and proud to become a part of one of the best cycling teams in the world, where I get to develop and shape some of the biggest talents."
Philippe Mauduit and Nick Gates will complete the staff and help guide riders through the many changes the team has gone through before the 2011 season.
"I'm very excited about working with Bjarne Riis, and of course the rest of the Saxo Bank-SunGard staff in 2011," said Gates. "After a briefing with team management, I didn't hesitate joining the team, which has a unique culture and values I certainly approve."
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