Bora – Argon 18 have announced that this year’s An Post Rás winner Lukas Pöstlberger (Tirol Cycling Team) will race with them as a stagiaire from the 1st of August. Another Austrian rider, 21 year-old Gregor Mühlberger (Team Felbermayr – Simplon Wels) has also signed a stagiaire contract with the team.
In addition to winning the Rás, Pöstlberger also won the prologue of the Istrian Spring Trophy and a stage of the recent Tour of Austria.
Ralph Denk, Team Manager of Bora – Argon 18 spoke about the two signings. “This year, we looked specifically for stage race riders from the German-speaking countries. We had one of the spots guaranteed for Gregor, and he confirmed this trust with his great successes this season. He has exceptional physical conditions and he is also climbing and time trialing very strongly – a perfect tour rider.”
“We have Lukas on our radar for quite a while now and he finally convinced us with his successes this season. Despite his young age, he rides very consistently at a high level.”
“We are constantly in talks with the best German U23-riders as well. It’s no secret that the German youngsters develop fantastically – also in the field of classification riders. We offered our third stagiaire spot to a German rider. Unfortunately it didn’t work out this year, since his current team didn’t approve. It’s a pity, but we have to respect that.” said Denk.
Sean McNicholl
It’s brilliant news. The guy is a star of the future for sure x as is Gregor who also rode the Ras. Look out for Lukas in Co. DERRY this October.