Rabobank extends sponsorship

Freire, Menchov, Boogerd and Thomas Dekker (Image credit: Bert Geerts)

Rabobank has renewed their team sponsorship, which was set to expire at the end of 2008, through 2012.

Pleased with the €12 million extension, Rabobank's President Piet Van Schijndel said, "For us, cycling is a brilliant sport that can continue growing if we have faith and commitment over a long period." He said Rabobank is not closing its eyes to the problems in the sport, including doping and an ongoing discord between organizers and the UCI. Instead, the team hopes to draw positive attention to the sport through its ongoing support.

The team announced at its presentation that its international ambitions will be increasing, with, of course, the continued support of loyal Dutch fans. Rabobank says a majority of its customers have indicated that that the organization's association with the sport is appropriate and worthy of renewal. The four year renewal period was chosen to coincide with UCI ProTour licenses and the Olympic cycle. Rabobank has sponsored the squad since 1996.