Landis targets return to Europe
Wednesday, 18 November 2009 09:40Disgraced cyclist Floyd Landis has parted company with the OUCH-Maxxis Professional team with immediate effect and is targeting a return to European competition.
The 34-year-old American, who was stripped of the 2006 Tour de France title after testing positive for testosterone and subsequently served a two-year ban, has expressed an interest in riding the prestigious stage races on offer in Europe.
A statement released by OUCH-Maxxis team management company Momentum Sports Group read:
'Momentum Sports Group (MSG) and Floyd Landis have mutually agreed to terminate Landis' Rider Agreement and thereby release both Landis and MSG from their respective obligations under the Rider Agreement for the remainder of the 2009 and 2010 racing seasons.
'For the 2010 season, Landis expressed to MSG that he desires to ride the longer, tougher stage races offered in Europe and internationally that better suit his strengths.
'Accordingly, given that MSG will be focusing its 2010 racing season primarily in the United States, MSG and Landis mutually agreed that it would be best for both parties to part ways at this time and allow Landis to seek a position with a team that could better accommodate his desires.'
