# Photo: TNE/Roth
Cycling: The NetApp-Endura team will continue to exist in the coming season. Then under a new name. As the team announced today, a new main sponsor has been found. The nice thing about it: he comes from Germany and is committed for five years.
The two current main sponsors of Team NetApp-Endura, the Californian IT company NetApp and the Scottish cycling clothing brand Endura, will not be extending their contracts, which are due to expire at the end of the year. NetApp is retiring from cycling after five years as a naming sponsor. Endura will focus on other engagements.
“I regret, but of course respect, the decisions of both companies. I thank NetApp for enabling me to take this unique journey from amateur level to the Tour de France with young riders. I also thank Endura for helping to make this young team's most successful period to date possible. True to the saying 'Leave when things are at their best,' I assure both sponsors that we will offer them the ultimate highlight of their commitment with the Tour de France,” said Ralph Denk, Team Manager of Team NetApp–Endura.
Since 2010 there will be a German name sponsor for the leading German professional team for the first time. The new sponsor will be presented as part of the Tour de France on the first rest day in Besançon. The company has signed a five-year contract with Ralph Denk pro cycling GmbH from January 01st, 2015.
“While the sponsorship withdrawal is causing a major crisis for many teams, it has opened up a whole new opportunity for us. We grabbed the opportunity and created long-term security until 2019. Of course, I am particularly pleased that this is possible with a German company. For me it is a very clear signal for cycling in Germany.", so keep thinking.
"Not only is a name change in store for us, we will also use this step to give our squad a new face. We will bring new talents into the team and also strengthen our German roots. I think that from today we have become a lot more interesting for many drivers. Our boys can tackle their first Tour de France without worrying about their future careers - that takes a lot of pressure off the team.", Ralph Denk emphasizes his optimism.