Team's future not worrying "Gerri"

While the team's future post-2012 continues to be the subject of conjecture in Spanish and international media alike, the man responsible for the whole team (on the sporting side anyway) refuses to let it bother him. Gorka Gerrikagoitia cut a relaxed figure at the team's training camp in Alicante when Gara asked for his opinion on the team's current predicament.

"I can't imagine cycling without Euskaltel", he said. "I consider that possibility (the team folding) so remote that I'm only concentrating on doing my job. If we do well, we won't struggle to stay afloat. The UCI's points system is not the most convenient for our team, but our objective is nonetheless to stay on in the WorldTour and give responsibility to riders so they can collect points towards the ranking."

In the hunt for points to boost Euskaltel's standing, the former professional says a good start to the campaign is key.

"It'll be important for us to start well given the changes in the team's structure. If we achieve results early on, the riders' motivation and confidence will grow and the whole team will be able to perform better. Igor (González de Galdeano) is no longer with us and Miguel Madariaga will take the helm, but we should all do our bit to ensure everything goes well. We're all united in this team, and we'll take this project forward."