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STAGE 2: ’09 TEAM TRANSFER MARKET: GAZPROM ROCKS WITH RUBLES
Tim Maloney-European Editor
July 6, 2008
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With Russian natural gas giant Gazprom supposed to come in as title sponsor of Tinkoff in 2009, the team has very agressive in seeking big names for next season. Peloton whispers say that big Quickstep sprinter Gert Steegmans could move to the squad in 2009, but nothing will be official until September. Fillipo Pozzato has also been linked to Tinkoff/Gazprom but he told Road Bike Action that "it's too early to talk about any changes for next seaons. I'm only focused on the Tour De France now." Other names that have been linked with Tinkoff/Gazprom are Russian Denis Menchov and Robbie McEwen for stage races and sprints.
Quickstep announced that Dutch sprinter Steven De Jongh has re-signed for 2009. Team manager Patrick Lefevre said of De Jongh “he is an important part of our team train for the sprints and he has also showed that he is able to win the races when he has the responsibility for our team.”
Swiss rider Martin Elmiger of AG2R La Mondiale has extended his contract with the French outfit for 2009, with an option for 2010. Young Belgian talent Gianni Meersman remains with La Française des Jeux after getting contract offers from both Astana and Quickstep.
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