Following on from yesterday’s news that the Australian sprinter Jonathan Cantwell is signing with the Saxo Bank SunGard team, the Danish squad has named another rider who will be part of the lineup in 2012.
The Ukrainian rider Volodymir Gustov is extending for another season, remaining with the team after a solid 2011 with the team. He previously competed with the squad between 2006 and 2008, went to the Cervélo Test Team for two seasons, then returned at the start of this year.
Although he is a past winner of races such as the Regio Tour and has finished third on a stage of the Vuelta a España, Gustov has carved out a career riding for others. He was one of the riders who backed Carlos Sastre to victory in the 2008 Tour de France and did the same for Alberto Contador in this year’s Giro d’Italia.
Team owner Bjarne Riis sees him continuing in the same role. “Volodymir is one of the most loyal and reliable domestiques in the peloton,” he said, confirming the contract renewal. “He is an all rounder with solid climbing skills and he brings a lot of experience. On top of that he has a lot team spirit and is well liked by his team mates, so I'm pleased we have reached a new agreement for next year.”
Gustov has been with other squads in the past, including a six year stint with Fassa Bortolo plus that aforementioned two year slot with the Cervélo Test Team, but will now be heading into his fifth season with Riis’ outfit. The 34 year old said that he feels at home with the squad, and that he is pleased to extend. “I like the setup, I like working with Bjarne Riis and the staff and simply enjoy the atmosphere here,” he said.