Cervélo TestTeam has been known for taking a different approach with their team, and the signing of João Correia is no exception. Correia, who rode professionally for the Bissell Pro Cycling Team in 2008 and 2009, was also working a full-time job as the Associate Publisher for Bicycling Magazine, the largest in the sport. Correia’s commitment to cycling would have him work during the day and train in the evenings in Central Park. His relationship with Cervélo gave him the opportunity to do the reverse of most professional cyclists, and hang up his corporate job for a chance to focus one hundred percent on cycling.
“I am excited and humbled to be riding with Cervélo TestTeam this season,” said Correia. “This is exciting opportunity for me to do what I really want to do. Many people have dreams of this kind, but most don’t get to live the dream, and I am.”
In the 1990’s Correia raced well in the junior world championships, which led to a stint with a Portuguese professional team. But before joining the Bissell Pro cycling team in 2008, the now 34-year-old hadn’t raced since his early 20’s, deciding instead to hang up the bike and focus on his education.
“It’s been a tough road back to this level after leaving the sport in the mid 90’s but I feel that the work I put in at Bissell in the last two years have given me a solid foundation to try and make the jump back into the upper echelons of the sport,” he explained. “With this team I have found people who share similar values to mine and who believe in me. They are very committed to making the world of cycling a better sport for athletes, sponsors and fans alike and I’d like to add my small part to help them do that.”
Gerard Vroomen, co-founder of Cervélo, said this wasn’t a new idea for him. The Dutchman has had his eye on Correia for some time, and sees a long term plan for Correia – someone who brings more than just horsepower to his team.
“We’ve known João for some time, and we actually first discussed this idea a few years ago,” said Vroomen. “Now the time is right to actually do it. No doubt it will be a difficult transition for him, but we’re not in a rush. And of course, besides his cycling talent and drive he brings a unique perspective to the pursuit of our other team goals; product development, fan access and hospitality.”