Olympic and world championship silver medallist Gustav Erik Larsson is the latest addition to the Vacansoleil team for 2012, leaving the Saxo Bank SunGard squad for the Dutch outfit.
The 31 year old Swede is regarded as one of the best riders against the clock when he is on form, and this strength won him a time trial stage in the 2010 Giro d’Italia, the 2010 Tour du Limousin and also four national titles.
He also finished 14th overall in the 2008 Giro, 11th overall in the 2010 Tour de Suisse and second in the 2010 Tour of Missouri, showing that he also has all-round abilities when in good condition.
2012 will be an important one for him as he has the Olympic Games to aim for, as well as the world championships. He’ll likely ride the individual time trial there, of course, but also next season will see the introduction of a trade team time trial which Vacansoleil wants to perform strongly in.
“I am pleased with my new the team,” he stated, in announcing the contract. “The way this team races gives space to all riders and it inspires me to be part of this team in 2012. It will be an interesting year with a few riders highlighted in my agenda. One of those races is of course another attempt [to win gold] after the 2008 Olympics.”
Directeur sportif Michel Cornelisse believes that he will be a powerful addition to the team. “Riders with a big engine are important for a team which seeks to perform in all sort of races,” he said. “A rider like Larsson is capable of winning a race and he can work hard for his team mates.
“It will be one of his tasks to look after the young riders in stage races. For example we lacked experience in the 2011 team time trials, and in such races he will be of great value.”
Meanwhile the team is continuing to develop and grow, with general manager Dan Luijkx confirming an increase while at the Tour of Beijing. According to De Telegraaf, he said the amount would be ‘at or near’ eight million Euros.
It’s good progression for the team, which was a Pro Continental outfit until it secured a ProTeam licence last winter.
It recently announced that it was changing bike suppliers from Ridley to Bianchi.