Cycling: Just one day after the announcement that Saxo Bank would remain a sponsor of the team, Peter Sagan's long-awaited move to outfit Russian billionaire Oleg Tinkov is official.
A few days ago, the Russian had promised Sagan's move to Fernando Alonso's team. But this was probably only publicity work in view of the probably much greater effect of the announcement of the change.
Tinkov has been addressing fans of the team on Twitter over the past few days, asking them if he should sign the three-time green jersey winner of the Tour de France. His tweet has been shared over 2500 times. Now the fans can rejoice.
As the Tinkoff-Saxo team officially confirmed today, Sagan has signed a three-year contract. "Peter is undoubtedly one of the greatest talents that our sport has and is now one of the best-known drivers", so Bjarne Riis in a press release. "He's showing, has a winning mentality and will give us some nice wins."
Tinkov added: “Peter Sagan is a great driver and I'm honored to have him on the team. I think Tinkoff-Saxo is the best team for him and I am sure he will win many races with us.”
No information was given about the merit of Sagan, who, according to Riis, can still learn a lot, especially in the tactical area. It is also not clear whether Sagan will join his brother Juraj.
The 24-year-old Slovakian turned pro with Cannondale in 2010. In the past five years he has established himself in the peloton at breakneck speed and is considered one of the most accomplished all-rounders. His achievements include three green jerseys at the Tour de France, four stage wins, three stage wins at the Vuelta, as well as victories at Gent-Wevelgem, Brabant Arrow, GP Cycliste de Montreal and E3 Harelbeke. Last year he was also on the podium at Milan-San Remo and the Tour of Flanders. Since 2011 he has been a serial winner at the Slovak Championships.