According to De Telegraaf, there is still hope for Vacansoleil this fall in Italy. The Dutch professional continental outfit was originally passed over for invitations to both Thursday's Giro del Piemonte and Saturday's season ending Monument, the Giro di Lombardia, to go along with many missed invitations throughout the season.
Following an excellent showing in Italy's 2009 fall classics, it was with great disappointment that the team received the news that it would not be able to take part in this year's races. De Telegraaf reports that all might not be lost though, as an invitation to one or both races is indeed a real possibility after Vacansoleil team manager, Hilaire Van der Schueren, spoke with RCS, organizers of both Piemonte and Lombardia, about a late invite this week.
Vacansoleil manager, Daan Luijkx, confirms the news about a start at Piemonte, but the chance is closer to nil regarding a start at Lombardia and a chance for redemption for former podium finisher, Riccardo Ricco.
Vacansoleil has received positive news (the good kind) concerning Ricco and the recent seizure of unidentified pills from his house. Luijkx says that he received a signed letter confirming the findings as "purely non-prescription sleeping pills and acetaminophen." Luijkx and his Vacansoleil team can now breathe a deep sigh of relief, and Luijkx puts an end to any speculation when he comments, "I have no reason to doubt that."
However, one rider still very much in doubt is new signing Ezequiel Mosquera. The Vacansoleil position is firm.
"If he really is positive, then we will require him to leave. That is clear."