DCM opts not to renew sponsorship of Dutch UCI ProTeam

DCM has decided not to extend its three-year co-sponsorship of the Vacansoleil-DCM UCI ProTeam cycling outfit, ahead of the conclusion of its current deal at the end of 2013.

The Belgian organic fertiliser company first signed with the team in 2010. However, despite a successful three-year partnership that has heralded a number of high profile victories, DCM has opted not to continue its deal with the Dutch team.

DCM will not withdraw from cycling altogether, with the firm having already renewed its contract with the team’s youth outfit for riders aged 10 to 18.

Vacansoleil-DCM general manager Daan Luijkx said: “DCM never had the intention to be on WorldTour level for a really long period. They were looking for an ambitious Pro Continental team, which was able to go into the WorldTour after two years. After that their final goal was to be at the highest level for three years. In those three years they did some great things to activate the sponsorship and they gained brand awareness in several important countries for their business. In a way you can say we succeeded too fast.”

While the loss of DCM had been expected, uncertainty remains over Vacansoleil and its decision over whether to continue its five-year partnership with the team. The Sponsoring.fr website reported last week that a decision had already been made not to renew, but the team strongly denies the reports.