Michael Rogers joins Team Saxo-Tinkoff
After spending two years with Team Sky Procycling, Michael Rogers has decided to say good-bye to the British outfit after he signed a two-year deal with Team Saxo-Tinkoff.
The real story behind the late season transfer remain a secret, as Team Sky refused to comment on the transfer, even after the cyclist signed Team’s anti-doping charter earlier in October.
Rogers marked his professional debut with Team Mapei-Quick Step in 2001and spent a period of two years with the team.
He moved to Team Quick Step-Davitamon through 2003-05 seasons and penned a deal with Team T-Mobile in 2006.
After spending six successful seasons with the American side, the Australian penned a two-year deal with Team Sky in 2011.
Rogers had a terrific 2012 season and his commendable performances of the season include two stages and an overall victory at the Bayern-Rundfahrt 2012.
He finished second overall at the Criterium du Dauphine, third at the Criterium International, fourth at the Santos Tour Down Under and occupied the fifth overall position at the Tour de Romandie 2012.
The 32-year-old was part of the Tour de France winning side, Team Sky and his inclusion will definitely strengthen the Danish side.
“I think Michael's palmares pretty much speaks for itself. He is without a doubt a world class rider, a very strong time trialist, who is also capable of climbing, and on top of that he is a great guy,” said team owner Bjarne Riis.
“Surely he will add strength to our team throughout the season, and I believe he will be a very important rider for us, both when it comes to helping Alberto in Grand Tours and to secure results on his own,” he concluded
The cyclist was overwhelmed after securing his future with the team and looks forward to ride alongside at the Tour de France 2013.
However, Team Saxo-Tinkoff still is not sure of its World Tour status as a final announcement will be made by the UCI on Monday, December 10th, 2012.
Team’s 2012 performance was not good enough to secure it a World Tour spot and UCI is re-evaluating its application.
It will be interesting to see, if Bjarne Riis’ is lucky enough to get his hands on the World Tour licence for the season ahead.
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