According to reports in Belgian newspaper Gazet van Antwerpen, Tinkoff Credit Systems has secured the services of Silence-Lotto directeur sportif Hendrik Redant, who will join the team next season in a managerial role. The 45 year-old Belgian likened his new position to that of Silence-Lotto team manager Marc Sergeant, saying he would no longer be driving the team car on a daily basis, except for at the Belgian races.
"I've let a few opportunities go by in the past," said Redant. "I am doing fine in my career at Lotto, but at this point I feel ready for a new challenge. I am pleased that the offer came."
The news comes a day after Quick Step's Gert Steegmans confirmed his signing with the Russian backed Professional Continental squad, which has also signed Belgian riders Kenny Dehaes (Topsport Vlaanderen) and Stijn Vandenbergh (AG2R). "Dehaes had a good offer from Française des Jeux, but he could not say no to what Tinkoff was offering," his manager told Het Nieuwsblad.
Team owner Oleg Tinkov is reportedly seeking a co-sponsor for his team, which will provide the cash to lure several big name riders. Others thought to be on the Russian's wish list include Australian Robbie McEwen (Silence-Lotto) and Italian Filippo Pozzato (Liquigas).
