The Astana team of Vuelta-winner Alexandre Vinokourov wanted a young French rider for next year, and have chosen 25 year-old Julien Mazet from Auber 93, who finished 5th in the recent Tour de l'Avenir.
Just before flying back to New Zealand, Tim Gudsell has received confirmation by Française des Jeux that his stagiaire position is turning into a pro contract for the next two years. The French team, directed by Marc Madiot, has had English speaking riders from the US, England, Australia and South Africa, but this is a first time with a Kiwi.
