The riders' words to Miguel Madariaga

As alma mater of both the Fundación Ciclista Euskadi and the Euskaltel Euskadi professional cycling team ever since their inceptions almost two decades ago, Miguel Madariaga has been an integral and invaluable part of Basque cycling's rich history. As the telephone company is set to take complete control of the team from next year and onwards, though, he'll officially not be a part of País Vasco's foremost cycling team anymore. Fittingly, the riders in orange paid tribute to the 68-year-old during yesterday's annual Fiesta de la Bici through handing over a signed photo, a txapela (Basque for beret) reading "17th of June 1993 - 2012 - Thank you Miguel!" and a few words of gratefulness. Here's what 'The Carrots' had to say:

Hi Miguel:

First of all, a big hug from all of us who have been, and always will be, your cyclists.

Your dedication to this project has been absolute. Beyond the victories and the successes, you've won our respect and admiration.

Thanks to you, to your effort, we were able to realize a dream. We are the examples and the results of your work, children who grew up with the bike as a toy and, after being part of the Fundación, were given the opportunity to turn professionals and continue to grow as individuals.

Through trial and error, you've always kept to your word. That shows the true greatness of a person.

Dedication, hard work and promise are values we associate with your commitment to the project that is the Fundación Ciclista Euskadi. You managed to bring us to the Tour de France. You succeeded in getting us into the WorldTour, the top league of cycling.

Without you, this wouldn't have been possible. We know you'll continue to work with the Fundación Ciclista Euskadi, but you will be greatly missed. Thank you for everything!

From your Euskaltel-Euskadi riders of 2012. 

(Photo: Deia)