Changes for Skil-Shimano

Dutch Professional Continental Team Skil-Shimano will lose two riders for the coming season, in what may be the first steps in a restructuring of the team. Maarten Tjallingii has signed with Predictor-Lotto, and Aart Vierhouten has not been offered a new contract.

Team Director Rudi Kemmna confirmed to Sportwereld that Tjallingii, who finished 16th in the Eneco Tour, has signed a one-year contract with Predictor. "I have completed my learning process at Skil-Shimano. Now I want to continue growing at a ProTour team," the Dutchman said.

Tjallingii, 29, was very active in the Eneco Tour, especially in the sixth stage.

Vierhouten, 37, rode for the team for two years, but will not be offered a new contract. The Dutch TV sender NOS reported that sponsor Shimano wanted more space on the team for Asian riders. Vierhouten turned pro in 1996, riding for Rabobank and Lotto before signing with Skil-Shimano.

The team also recently rescinded its contract with German rider Christian Müller.