Racing bikes manufacturer Bianchi has reaffirmed its commitment to Team Belkin for 2015, providing the UCI ProTour cycling squad can find a new title sponsor.
American consumer electronics company Belkin last week announced it would not extend its current deal with the team beyond the 2014 season.
Belkin and Bianchi will assist in the Netherlands-based outfit’s search for a new partner, while the team has also launched a crowd funding initiative in a bid to make it more attractive to potential backers.
Bianchi’s decision offers a timely boost to Team Belkin, although the Italian company appears to be set to explore other options if a sponsor cannot be found so that it can remain active on the UCI WorldTour in 2015 and beyond.
Bianchi said: “Following Belkin's unexpected decision to exit pro cycling as the title sponsor of the Belkin Pro Cycling Team, Bianchi re-confirms its strategy to participate at the highest level of performance cycling and will consider all available options to secure a position in the 2015 WorldTour and future years.
“Bianchi intends to stay with the team if a new sponsor can be secured and is cooperating to help make the future possible. The team has worked very hard to prepare and Bianchi looks forward to a successful Tour de France and the remaining 2014 race calendar.”
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