GreenEDGE Cycling soap opera abruptly ends
Cycling’s current favorite soap opera is over. GreenEDGE Cycling has confirmed that they will not be working with the Manuela Fundación after all.
The drama began last Friday, when GreenEDGE, currently the Mitchelton-Scott team, announced the Manuela Fundación as their new lead sponsor for the remainder of 2020 and the entirety of the 2021 season. But disagreements immediately occurred in public. Francisco Huertas believed he’d bought the entire team, rather than sponsoring it, and set out his aim to make it the top Spanish team in the peloton. Team owner Gerry Ryan disagreed.
And today they pulled the plug. Wonder if they get to keep the jerseys. Mitchelton-Scott will remain as title sponsor, and the riders and staff will be paid when racing resumes. Beyond that, the team will be looking for a new sponsor for 2021. The Manuela Fundación is likely to contest the decision, or at least give us one final blast of public meltdown fun, but that’s about it.
So that’s a wrap. For now. Fortunately, cycling is a sport that has no shortage of other daytime TV style dramas. Let’s all turn our attention to which team Chris Froome will ride the Tour de France with. Bet it’s Israel Startup Nation.
STATEMENT: Future of GreenEDGE Cycling
After careful consideration, GreenEDGE Cycling has today advised Mr. Francisco Huertas, owner of Manuela Fundación, that it will not proceed with the Head of Terms established on June 5, 2020.
“We felt a strong initial connection with Mr Francisco Huertas, the Manuela Fundación and their noble aims,” team founder and principal Gerry Ryan explained.
“However, as the negotiations have evolved after the initial announcement on Friday, we have concluded that the relationship will not proceed. We wish Mr. Francisco Huertas and the Manuela Fundación all of the best for the future.”
Moving forward, the GreenEDGE Cycling men’s and women’s teams will return to racing next month under the existing Mitchelton-SCOTT banner, with a fully supported financial and technical structure provided by Ryan.
“The COVID-19 global crisis has thrown up many new challenges, but our primary focus remains on our world-class athletes and support staff,” Mr Ryan assured.
“This will include a return to full wages for all riders and staff once WorldTour racing commences in August, and a commitment to the year 2021 as we search for a suitable sponsorship.
“We believe in this team, and the people and culture that have made it so successful these past eight years. Our riders have been inspiring in their commitment and motivation in what has been an uncertain season, and our staff loyal and determined to provide the best service possible in what will be a busy and challenging end to the year. We can’t wait to get back on the road and start winning more races.”