Young German Markus Fothen, who rode a brilliant Giro d'Italia and placed 12th in his first participation in the race, has renewed his current contract with Team Gerolsteiner and committed to the squad until 2008. The 24 year-old Fothen was U23 World Time Trial champion last year and is rated as one of Germany's major talents. "I'm happy that we have managed to sign this young rider on a long term basis, as he has exceptional potential," said team manager Hans-Michael Holczer. "We will try to develop his talent for stage races accordingly."
Fothen himself also was pleased about the new three-year deal. "I feel very comfortable at Gerolsteiner, and the sporting perspective is outstanding, so I'm happy that it worked out. Now I can concentrate solely on the sport for the next three years," he said.
