Prodigiously talented American Joe Dombrowski’s strong performances this year have led to a range of choices for the 21 year old, who is set to make his pro debut next season.
After finishing third overall in the Tour of the Gila in May, he took fourth on the Mount Baldy stage in the Tour of California, beating established names such as Tom Danielson (Garmin-Sharp), and went on to take twelfth overall.
That raised interest in the climber, but the number of contract proposals jumped last month when he won mountain stages at Monte Terminillo and the Passo di Gavia in the GiroBio, or Baby Giro. The second stage triumph earned him the final overall victory, making him the first American to win the race in its four decade history.
In finishing best overall, he emulated past victors such as Francesco Moser, Marco Pantani, Gilberto Simoni and Danilo di Luca. All went on to top pro careers, and each won the senior Giro d’Italia.
“Very few teams have not shown an interest, both WorldTour and Pro Continental level,” said agent Andrew McQuaid. “He is a huge talent, the real deal. I think he is going to be a big star – winning the Baby Giro at 21 is massive and shows how gifted he is.”
McQuaid said that a decision will be made in the next few weeks. “What's most important in deciding which team is best is pinpointing which one is going to develop him the best; that means not putting too much pressure on early on for results, but rather in thinking long-term in developing.
“Also, as he hasn't spent much time in Europe it will be a big change for him to move over. He is still young so a team where he is comfortable in will help.”
He said that at this point in time, other considerations were more important than salary level.
Dombrowski has been racing this season with the Livestrong Bontrager squad. He has several years of development ahead of him, but US fans will hope that he will develop into a top Grand Tour rider.