Madariaga reveals non-payment of rider wages

In the wake of reports that the Fundación Ciclista Euskadi and Euskaltel Euskadi have not managed to reach a deal over the sale of team vehicles from the former to the latter a week ago, foundation president and outgoing team manager Miguel Madariaga has revealed riders and staff have not been paid wages for November.

As previously reported, the Fundación is facing a big budget deficit after sponsors cut back on their support earlier this year, and Madariaga was hoping to balance the books by selling the team's fleet vehicles to Galdeano and co. running the "new Euskaltel". As communication has broken down, the employees have taken the hit.

"The sky is black for the Fundación Euskadi", he told regional radio station Euskadi Irratia, reproduced by BiciCislismo. "Not only the riders haven't received their wages; no employee of the Fundación has. It's the most difficult situation we've ever been in".

According to Madariaga, the wage bills for November and December total 857 000 euros. With the numerous vehicles valued at precisely 918 000, the solution to the problem is obvious.

"The vehicles are mine and the riders' hope of salvation", he stated. "We have to reach an agreement as I see no other way out of this - it's a necessity. Euskaltel need to realize this. If we can't sell the busses to them, the Fundación is in great danger."

Despite the dire outlook, though, the founding father of the team is hopeful a deal can be reached.

"We haven't reached an agreement because we haven't met for discussions. Monday and Tuesday morning will be very important if we are to reach a deal. Euskaltel are holding the keys to solve this problem in their hands. They have to realize most of the riders will stay on with them, and not getting paid is not a good start. But before we reach that point, we all have the opportunity to speak and correct the situation. I harbour hope this will all be solved before the end of the year".