Ivan Velasco

26-year-old Ivan Velasco Murilla joined Euskaltel from their feeder-team Orbea, and the young, talented Basque was given a one-year contract. Ivan has made notable progression the last years, and I had for some time hoped he would join Euskaltel. Ivan hasn`t managed to win a race to date, but last year had some impressive results. 11th. in the Tour de Limousin, 14th. in the Vuelta Ciclista a la Rioja and 13th. in the Circuito de Getxo stand out as his most notable performances. Prior to joining Orbea in 2006, the rider from Arrasate rode for Ulma-Cegasa (1999-2000), Ruta-Europa (2001-2003), Serbitzu (2004) and for the same team as Lander Apperibay; Bidelan-Kirolgi( 2005). He`s more an all-rounder than anything else, so Ivan will not be a protected rider for Euskaltel, at least not next year, but he`ll be a vital part of the Euskaltel machinery. Though, this rider is really gifted, so don`t be surprised if he wins a race or two next year.