Cycling: The rumor has been circulating for a few days that Chris Froome could leave the British team Ineos this year. Now he's fueling speculation himself.
Froome wants to take new steps
Just a few days ago, the rumor that Chris Froome would change teams this year seemed absurd. But after even Ineos and Movistar commented on it, the suspicion is growing that there might be some truth to the speculation. Now the Briton himself has spoken to Gazzetta dello Sport – and his comments are anything but clear.
Chris Froome:
"I have to take many aspects into account, I'm fully involved in this process now. I will take new steps in the coming weeks and months. I hope to have a clearer picture of my future by then. Then all discussions will be over and we will know where we stand.”
Movistar denies interest
Immediately after the first rumors about a possible change of the four-time tour winner made the rounds, an Ineos employee is said to have commented on the Gazzetta dello Sport: With the words "No, he stays with us" at least an early change seems to be off the table . The Spanish side Movistar have also denied being interested in Chris Froome signing immediately. It should be exciting on the transfer market - also because of the corona virus - after this season anyway. Chris Froome's contract expires at the end of 2020. And that would give the Brit a free choice of team anyway...
Comeback after a bad fall
The urgency for Chris Froome's move stems from the fact that he no longer holds a clear leadership position within his current team, Ineos. After teammate Geraint Thomas won the Tour de France in 2018, Egan Bernal took the top spot in 2019. Now, reigning Giro d'Italia winner Richard Carapaz has also joined the team. Things are getting tight for the 34-year-old Froome. To make matters worse, he still needs to regain his top form after his serious crash at the Critérium du Dauphiné almost a year ago. In fact, the Briton did n't compete in a single race during the entire second half of the season.
Epic ride today! After two months of indoor training I'm happier than a 🐷 in 💩😆 #cycling pic.twitter.com/1i8uHibn4N
— Chris Froome (@chrisfrome) May 14, 2020