Organisers of the Amstel Gold Race have reduced the number of teams allowed to start this year's event from 25 to 23 because of safety concerns, according to Dutch press agency ANP. "There are always twists and turns in the Amstel, but now there are more and more obstructions in Limburg," said race director Leo van Vliet. "We have had much consultation with the municipalities and province but the riders must understand that we are trying to make it safer for them."
All 20 ProTour teams will participate in the Amstel's 42nd edition on Sunday, April 22 with van Vliet confirming that Belgian team Chocolade Jacques has been awarded the third wildcard alongside Skil-Shimano and Wiesenhof-Felt.
