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Gerolsteiner planning for the future

published 5 December 2006

By Susan Westemeyer Team Gerolsteiner is going into the new season with no designated captains for...

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Schumacher wins big in Giro (Image credit: Sirotti)

By Susan Westemeyer

Team Gerolsteiner is going into the new season with no designated captains for the grand tours. "We have a lot of crown princes," team manager Hans-Michael Holczer told the Reutlinger General Anzeiger. He mentioned Marcus Fothen as one of the favourites. "He showed what he can do with his 15th place in the Tour this year. Who know how far he can go in the future."

Holczer also looked to Stefan Schumacher as a favourite for the world championships in Stuttgart, and the rider's season planning is based on that race. "He won't train on the race course. But with Schumi, you never know." Schumacher sees the parcours as so difficult that it won't be decided in a sprint finish, believes in his chances.

Holczer also repeated his strong anti-doping stance, noting that his riders have signed contracts requiring DNA samples in case of suspicion of doping. "Twelve other teams also have this clause in their contracts," he continued.

In addition, the team will support, both financially and materially, a new team for young German riders. "We don't have an exact name [for the team] yet," Holczer noted. Former Gerolsteiner rider Michael Rich will be material and talent scout for the team.