Heulot names riders

Former French professional Stephane Heulot has named the first riders who have signed to his new Continental squad. The former Tour de France yellow jersey wearer has picked up Credit Agricole refugees Jimmy Engoulvent, Julien Simon and Jean-Marc Marino for next season.

The three will be joined by Benoit Sinner from Agritubel and neo-professional Cyril Bessy in 2009.

"With six out of 12 riders, we have already made up half the team," said the 37 year-old.

Heulot, a former French champion, announced he had a budget of between 1.2 and 1.5 million Euro for the squad's first season.