Astarloa too old for Euskaltel

Former World Champion Igor Astarloa, now of Milram, revealed to DEIA that he would love to join Euskaltel, but that he was told he was too old. The Classics specialist has had a bad year with the German/Italian formation due to injuries and illness, and was told by the Milram heads that he could look for another team if he wanted to. Igor spoke to Madariaga, but was told he didn't fit into the program because of his age. Euskaltel would focus on youth, not 31-year-olds. Igor was left a little baffled, as Madariaga had inquired about his availability just a year prior. Though, he still has hope of one day representing his home team, saying: "Maybe if I perform really well this year they'll be interested". I sure hope he does, as I would love to see Igor pull on the famous orange jersey. He would be such an inspiration for the younger riders, and is still more than capable of pulling of major wins. Igor will ride for Milram again next year, but perhaps in 2009 he'll team up with the best Basques at Euskaltel.