Philippe Gilbert joins Cadel Evans and Thor Hushovd as Team BMC secure a three year contract
After signing the Tour de France, 2011 cyclists Brent Bookwalter, Michael Schar, Marcus Burghardt, Manuel Quinziato and Steve Morabito, along with Cadel Evans and Thor Hushovd Team BMC has further strengthened itself by signing the Belgian cyclist Philippe
Gilbert for the 2012 season.
Gilbert has won various classic cycle races that includes Giro di Lombardia in 2009-10, Paris-Tour in 2008-09, Amstel Gold Race in 2010-11, La Fleche Wallone in 2011 Liege–Bastogne-Liege in 2011 followed by the Clasica de San Sebastian in 2011 including
stage wins at the Grand tours. He has won two stages at the Vuelta a Espana and a stage at the Giro d’ Italia and Tour de France each.
The 29-year-old commented on his inclusion in the team as he said that team BMC was always interested in signing him and he is satisfied after signing a well-organized and a professional team as he stated, “My objectives are clear: to go for one-day classics
and then go to the Tour to learn and help Cadel.”
Cadel Evans is currently getting ready for USA Pro Cycling Challenge and has raced with Gilbert many times before as he mentioned that, he is happy to be with one of his old team-mates. Evans added that he has always been friends with Gilbert and now he
has the opportunity of being his team-mate as he is looking ahead to the 2012 season and warmly welcomed Philippe Gilbert in the team.
Jim Ochowicz who is the team manager has welcomed the cyclist as he said, “He will act as one of our leaders during the classics and other races throughout the season.” He added that Philippe’s strengths will help Cadel Evan in defending his Tour de France
title.
Jim further commented about the cyclist as he said, “His experience will be shared in a mentorship role to the younger riders on the team like Taylor Phinney and Greg Van Avermaet as they continue to develop their skills in the classics."
Gilbert was high in demand because of his tremendous performances in the current and previous years and team BMC has seen the true talent as they have signed him in a deal until 2014.
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