Yesterday, Radio Shack announced they had formed a partnership with Lance Armstrong to form a new American cycling team. On his Livestrong web site, Armstrong said, "Radio Shack has agreed to partner with us on this venture and ensure that this partnership and this team stays alive for years to come, continues to be at the head of the peloton. To be able to compete for an American team comprised of the world's top cyclists, supported by the best coaches and staff — I couldn't be happier."
This year Lance Armstrong has competed for the Astana team for free, just to be able to get back into top notch competition. But that team has had financial problems, and went two whole months without paying their riders. There is a good chance the team will not exist next year.
No other riders have been announced. However, the team manager for America's Garmin-Slipstream team said his riders are all under contract for next year and will not be going to the new team. The other current American team, Columbia-Highroad, has not issued a statement, but they did very well on the cycling circuit this year and will probably try and retain the riders they have.
It was also unknown who might be the team manager. But if Astana goes under, that would free up Johan Bruyneel. Bruyneel (pictured) was Armstrong's manager for all seven of the Tour de France wins that Armstrong has.
Armstrong expects some other sponsors to join the effort soon. He is already talking to Trek Bicycles and Nike among others.
Lance has already said he would like to ride in the Tour de France next year, but it is too early to know if the new team will be invited to compete. I suspect they will though. It could really be exciting to see three American teams of quality competing next year.
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