Danish rider becomes the latest rider to be confirmed as leaving Danish team
Alex Rasmussen has joined HTC-Columbia for 2011, becoming the latest rider to leave Bjarne Riis’ Saxo Bank team. The 26-year-old Dane has been with Riis’ team for two years, since switching from the track, where he has translated his speed into sprinting and prowess in short distance time trials.
This season he has won the time trial stage of the Ruta del Sol, the GP Herning and two sprint stages of the Quatre Jours de Dunkerque.
“I decided to make the move to HTC-Columbia because I still have a lot to learn as a sprinter,” said Rasmussen. “I believe I can develop a lot on this team that has a history of good sprinters. I’m also looking forward to working with sport director Brian Holm.”
“I have known Alex for quite a long time as I raced against him in some six day races at the track,” said HTC-Columbia Team Manager Rolf Aldag. “He was very young then but he always impressed me with his pure power. His victory in the Ruta del Sol time trial ahead of Bradley Wiggins, Tony Martin and Michael Rogers really caught my attention.
“I believe he can be an important part in our sprinting department as well as very competitive in time trials,” he added. “There are a lot results to come for Alex if he gets the right support.”
Rasmussen is the tenth member of Saxo Bank to be confirmed as leaving the Danish team; most are bound for the new Luxembourg team set up by Fränk and Andy Schleck.