Zaballa signed by LA-MSS

By Antonio J. Salmerón

Spaniard Constantino Zaballa, currently at Caisse d'Epargne, has signed a contract for the 2008 season with Portuguese Team LA-MSS.

"I want to succeed in Portuguese cycling. I am very motivated and very keen to repay the confidence the team has placed in me," said the 29 year-old to Cyclingnews. He will ride under Team Manager Manuel Zeferino. "I have very good references from other Spanish cyclists who have been under his [Zeferino's] command."

The Portuguese press looks forward to the return of Zaballa, who took his first victory as a professional in the 2001 Volta a Portugal. "I made my debut with Kelme-Costa Blanca ... I won the first stage, and I rode four days in the jersey of the leader."

Despite the difficult times of the last two years while riding with Caisse d'Epargne, 'Tino' is "quiet" and wants to turn the page. The 2005 Clasica San Sébastien and a stage in the 2004 Vuelta a España, together with the overall in the Euskal Bizikleta this year, are the most important victories for Zaballa. "One or two victories per season in addition to working for the companions of the team," he commented on his goals. He hopes to "above all, provide the team wins."

Zaballa will be joined at LA-MSS by Spaniards Xavier Tondo Volpini (winner of the 2007 Volta a Portugal), José Antonio Garrido and Pedro Romero.