Chris Froome has announced his first race with his new Israel Start Up Nation team, as he begins his 2021 season in South America.
The winner of the four-time Tour de France, left by Ineos Grenadiers after a decade, will step up with his new squad in the Vuelta a San Juan in Argentina, starting on January 24.
Froome’s move is an exciting development for cycling fans, as the 35-year-old tries to restore old glory with the Israel WorldTour squad, having won seven Grand Tours with Ineos (formerly Team Sky).
He said: “This race marks the beginning of a much-anticipated new chapter of my career. I look forward to racing with my new teammates and taking the ball forward on the upcoming adventure. ”
Froome is currently training in California a few weeks ago, as he is able to train through his first full season since his horrific crash in the 2019 Critérium du Dauphiné.
New Israeli start-up Nation sports director Rik Verbrugghe said: “He is not going to Argentina to win the race.
“We see it as a great opportunity for Chris to begin the process of building towards the height of the season down the road.”
The team runs stage wins in San Juan, alongside French sprinter Rudy Barbier and Guy Niv.
ISN will also bring Tom Van Asbroeck, Alex Cataford and new signing Patrick Bevin to the race.
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Team manager Kjell Carlström said: “In what is going to be an important season for the team and for Chris, the nice atmosphere and the weather at the Vuelta a San Juan make it a great place to start out. the season.
“Chris will get a feel for his new players in camp shortly before he starts and will be able to build the relationships throughout the race. Racing together as a team is always important and this race situation is a great platform to work on that. ”
Sylvan Adams, co-owner of the team, said: “I am thrilled that the Israeli Start-up Nation team will be starting the 2021 season in Argentina again, having raced the Vuelta a San Juan three times. Chris Froome has been training hard, and this is his first opportunity to represent ISN as he races in our blue and white colors and returns to form. ”