The 2017 Giro d’Italia maglia ciclamino winner Fernando Gaviria and his trusted lead-out man Maximiliano Richeze have extended their contracts with Quick-Step Floors beyond 2017.
Gaviria has racked up eight wins since starting his season in January, including four spectacular stage victories at the Giro d’Italia, where he enjoyed a spell in the pink jersey before going on to win the maglia ciclamino in Milan.
Gaviria, who has picked up 17 wins since making his debut for Quick-Step Floors, has signed a two-year contract extension with the World Tour team classification leader.
“I am very happy to stay with the team who gave me the chance to turn pro and brought me into European cycling,” said Gaviria, the first Colombian to win the points classification at a Grand Tour.
“When I look back on the last two years and see how I’ve developed and grown as a rider, I am more than confident staying with this team is the right decision. I feel at home and appreciated here, and Patrick Lefevere puts a lot of confidence in me, so it just feels like a natural step to continue my progression with this outstanding team.”
“After what I’ve achieved in the Giro, I think I am heading towards the next big step of my career. I am especially keen on testing my potential and doing well in the classics, races I have always had a special love for. Quick-Step Floors is one of the greatest ever teams in these races, so I think I can learn a lot from the guys here. I look forward to continuing my presence in the fast finishes and grabbing my chances when and wherever they show in next season.”
Maximiliano Richeze has played a quintessential role in Fernando Gaviria’s success since joining the team. The Argentinean proved that at 34 years of age he still is a world-class lead-out man, and he was rewarded with a new contract stretching until 2019.
“Quick-Step Floors is one big family and I’m delighted to be part of it for two more years. I’m a pro since 2006 and to continue at such a high level makes me very proud, especially as I’m doing it with the most successful World Tour outfit. I’m also happy that my partnership with Fernando will continue, and we hope to get many other victories together”, said Richeze, a double stage winner this season at Vuelta a San Juan.
“We are very pleased to make this announcement. Fernando’s potential is huge, he’s one of the most talented riders out there and I dare to say his results so far have been only an appetizer for what we are going to see in the years to come. His potential, determination and mentality recommend him for many great feats, I’m sure of that”, said Quick-Step Floors CEO Patrick Lefevere. “Concerning Max Richeze, he brings invaluable experience to our squad and renewing his contract was the natural thing to do. Having them in the team for two more years makes us very happy!”
